HOUSTON, TX - Mississippi Valley State University's women's basketball delivered an unforgettable performance, securing their first Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) win of the season with a nail-biting victory over Texas Southern University of 70-69 with an incredible comeback from a 21-point deficit.

After going into halftime, MVSU found themselves trailing TSU 42-26. TSU's largest lead was 21 points (2:12 in the second quarter).
 
The second half turned into a showcase of resilience, with Leah Turner emerging as a key player. Turner, hit four 3-pointers and contributed 16 crucial points to the scoreboard. Sh'Diamond McKnight continued her stellar performance. After scoring 10 points in the first half, McKnight added 11 points in the second half to aid in MVSU's comeback efforts.
 
The score was tied at 69 with only 13 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. In a moment of high pressure, McKnight stepped up and found herself on the free-throw line with just two seconds left on the clock. With unwavering composure, she sank a crucial free throw, giving MVSU a narrow 70-69 lead.
 
McKnight showcased her defensive ability by stealing Texas Southern's inbounds pass to seal the game for Mississippi Valley State in a spectacular fashion.
 
MVSU was led by three players scoring in double figures. Sh'Diamond McKnight, who stood out as the offensive force for MVSU, finishing the game with a game-high 21 points and five rebounds. Leah Turner's 16 points and seven boards, along with Jaylia Reed's 12 points, highlighted the team's collective effort. 
 
 
Game Notes

• This is the first ever SWAC win for Head Coach Kimberly Anderson
• MVSU led with the largest lead being four (1:48 in the 4^th quarter). TSU led with the largest lead being 21 (2:12 remaining in the 2^nd quarter). 
• MVSU led TSU in 2^nd chance points 24-7.
• MVSU scored 30 points from the bench.
• MVSU won the rebounding battle 49-44.
• MVSU shot 33.8 percent (25-of-74) from the floor and 63.2 percent (12-of-19) from the free throw line. 
• TSU shot 35.5 percent (22-of-62) from the floor and 70 percent (14-of-20) from the free throw line. 
• MVSU defense scored 22 points off TSU turnovers.
• MVSU collected 19 steals in the game.

UP NEXT
The Mississippi Valley State Devilettes will return home and host Bethune-Cookman University on Saturday January 20th, 2024 at 4:00PM.

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