Southern University's women's basketball team showcased their resilience by defeating Samford University 65鈥�53 in the NCAA First Four. Despite a challenging first half where they led by only three points, the Jaguars demonstrated their championship mindset in the final quarter, outscoring their opponents 21-9. DeMya Porter鈥檚 standout performance, alongside significant contributions from Jocelyn Tate and Jaylia Reed, solidified Southern's position as a formidable contender in March basketball.

By the Numbers
  • Southern scored 34 points in the paint compared to Samford's 12.
  • Southern had a rebounding edge of 37 to 32.
  • 22 lead changes and 10 ties occurred throughout the game.
State of Play
  • Southern鈥檚 victory marks their second consecutive First Four win.
  • The Jaguars' record improves to 20鈥�13 with this game.
  • They will advance to face #1 South Carolina in the NCAA Tournament on Saturday.
What's Next

Southern will focus on preparing for their next matchup against the top-seeded University of South Carolina, where they hope to build on their recent momentum and continue their tournament journey.

Bottom Line

The Jaguars' ability to perform under pressure not only secures them a spot in the tournament but also underscores their growth as a competitive program in women's basketball. Their depth and execution in key moments position them as a team to watch in the upcoming rounds.