By Leon Mitchell, Grambling State Athletic Communications
BATON ROUGE — Grambling State faced a tough battle on Saturday afternoon against Southern University, playing at the F.G. Clark Activity Center in Baton Rouge. Despite a strong effort, Grambling State fell 59-53 in a closely contested Southwestern Athletic Conference matchup.
The loss dropped Grambling State to 5-11 overall (2-3 SWAC), while Southern improved to 6-10 overall (3-2 SWAC).
Grambling State started strong in the first quarter, taking an early lead at 12-8, their largest of the game. Guard Douthshine Prien led the Tigers with 15 points, shooting 4-for-8 from the field and contributing seven points from the free-throw line. However, Southern University surged in the second quarter, outscoring Grambling 22-9 to take control of the game.
Southern’s defensive pressure was a key factor, forcing 22 turnovers from Grambling. Tionna Lidge led Southern with 10 points, seven rebounds, and two assists, including a crucial layup in the final minute to seal the victory.
Grambling’s offense was supported by Lydia Freeman, who added eight points and a team-high nine rebounds, and Kahia Warmsley, who chipped in 10 points and six boards. Despite their efforts, Grambling struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 1-for-8 (12.5%), and converted only 63.2% of their free-throw attempts.
Southern held a slight rebounding edge, 35-32, and benefited from balanced scoring and strong ball movement, recording 18 assists compared to Grambling’s eight.
Grambling State will look to bounce back in their next game as they aim to climb the SWAC standings.
INSIDE THE NUMBERS
- Grambling State shot 38.5% from the field and 12.5% from three-point range, while Southern shot 39.0% and 41.7% from beyond the arc.
- Southern held a slight edge at the free-throw line, converting 57.1% of their attempts (8-of-14), compared to Grambling State’s 63.2% (12-of-19).
- The Tigers scored 34 points in the paint and generated 19 second-chance points.
- Southern capitalized on turnovers, scoring 12 points off Grambling’s 22 turnovers, while their bench contributed 22 points.
UP NEXT
Grambling State will travel to Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to take on the University of Arkansas – Pine Bluff on Thursday, January 23. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. at the H.O. Clemmons Arena.