TUSKEGEE, Ala. — The Tuskegee women's basketball team fell to Edward Waters University, 53-41, in SIAC action Saturday afternoon inside the Daniel "Chappie" James Center.
 
Tuskegee (12-13, 12-12 SIAC) opened the contest battling defensively, holding Edward Waters to just 10 first-quarter points while trailing narrowly, 10-8, after the opening period.
 
Both teams struggled to find an early offensive rhythm, with the Lady Golden Tigers shooting just 2-of-11 from the field in the first quarter. Strong free-throw shooting helped keep Tuskegee within striking distance as they remained within one possession for much of the period.
 
Edward Waters (25-5, 21-3 SIAC) began to create separation in the second quarter, shooting efficiently and outscoring Tuskegee 15-10 in the frame.
 
The visitors capitalized on perimeter opportunities and second-chance possessions to carry a 25-18 advantage into halftime. Tuskegee continued to compete on the glass but struggled to convert field goal opportunities.
 
In the third quarter, the Lady Golden Tigers showed resilience as Tenea Robinson and Aaliyah Duranham helped trim the deficit to single digits. Robinson attacked the paint and drew contact, while Duranham controlled the boards and provided interior presence. However, Edward Waters responded with timely baskets to maintain a 39-32 lead heading into the final quarter.
 
The fourth quarter proved decisive as Edward Waters' defense limited Tuskegee's scoring opportunities down the stretch. The Lady Golden Tigers managed just three field goals in the final period, while Edward Waters closed the game on a steady run to secure the 53-41 victory.
 
Robinson led Tuskegee with 13 points and went 11-of-12 from the free-throw line, followed by Arianna Durrell and Kae'la Mitchell both with seven points each. Duranham contributed six points and a team-high 14 rebounds, while Shemaiah Mackin added four points and nine rebounds.
 
As a team, Tuskegee shot just 22.6 percent from the field and converted 16-of-19 free throws for 84.2 percent. The Golden Tigers finished with 39 rebounds and forced 10 turnovers.
 
Edward Waters was paced by Amelya Hatch with 16 points, while Jordyn Harris added 10 points. The visiting Tigers shot 39.7 percent from the field and received a significant lift from their bench, which contributed 26 points.

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