Lady Tigers Fall Short in Gritty Battle Against Lindenwood
NASHVILLE — In a game that featured 12 ties and seven lead changes, the Tennessee State women’s basketball team showcased a relentless effort on the glass but ultimately fell to Lindenwood (MO), 75–70, Thursday night at the Gentry Center.
Despite the 4–22 (3–14 OVC) record, the Lady Tigers played with a "never quit" mentality, dominating the rebounding battle 38–30 and turning 13 offensive boards into crucial second chance opportunities.
Key Performers
The Lady Tigers saw balanced production with three players reaching double figures:
Erin Martin: Delivered a powerhouse performance with a double-double, racking up 18 points and 10 rebounds. She was a force in the interior, accounting for five of the team's offensive rebounds.
Aaniya Webb: Contributed 13 points and provided a defensive spark with two blocks.
Genesis Harris: Efficiently chipped in 10 points to help keep the offense moving.
Kiki Roberts: While she finished with 7 points, her impact on the glass was unmatched, pulling down a game high 11 rebounds.
The opening frame was a back and forth affair. After an early 4–4 tie, a 5–0 run capped by Kiki Roberts pushed TSU ahead 9–4. However, Lindenwood closed the quarter strong to take a 19–15 lead.
The Lions extended their lead to nine in the second, but the Lady Tigers clawed back. A bucket by Somah Kamara fueled a late surge, cutting the halftime deficit to just four points at 34–30.
The third quarter was where TSU truly found their rhythm. An explosive 12 for 17 (70.6%) shooting performance in the period allowed them to erase the lead and go on a 6–0 run, surging ahead 53–47. Lindenwood managed to respond late in the quarter, reclaiming a narrow 57–56 lead heading into the final ten minutes.
In the fourth, the Lady Tigers leaned on their perimeter game, knocking down two triples to stay within striking distance. They continued to attack the paint where they scored 46 of their 70 points but Lindenwood's late game execution proved to be just enough to hold off the TSU comeback.
Game Notes
Erin Martin recorded her double-double while anchoring the paint on both ends.
TSU held a significant 38–30 advantage on the glass.
The Lady Tigers generated 8 second chance points off aggressive offensive rebounding.
The bench contributed 16 points to the overall effort.
Up Next
The Lady Tigers stay home for their final OVC home game this Saturday, Feb. 21, against SIUE. Tip off is scheduled for 4 p.m. CT. It will be a special afternoon at the Gentry Center as the program celebrates Senior Day, honoring the dedication and careers of its graduating student athletes.