Itta Bena, MS – Mississippi Valley State University's Devilettes secured their first win of the season in dramatic fashion, defeating Troy University 66-65 at the Harrison HPER Complex. The game featured ten lead changes and ten ties, keeping the crowd of 763 fans on edge until the final buzzer.

Game Summary

The Devilettes overcame a seven-point halftime deficit (27-34) by dominating the third quarter with a 24-19 scoring advantage and holding on in the fourth quarter to clinch the one-point victory. Their resilience was highlighted by stellar bench contributions and a defensive intensity that forced 27 turnovers from Troy.

Standout Performers

• Shakira Gresham was unstoppable off the bench, scoring 13 points on 5-of-5 shooting and grabbing 6 rebounds. Her efficiency was crucial in key moments.
• Kearra Jones added 7 points and a steal, providing a spark on both ends of the floor.
• Ja'la Douglas and D'Yanna Maxey chipped in 10 points each, showcasing balanced scoring across the roster.

Key Team Stats

• Bench Production: MVSU's bench outscored Troy's 36-21, proving to be a decisive factor in the game.
• Points from Turnovers: The Devilettes capitalized on Troy's mistakes, scoring 30 points off turnovers compared to just 11 by Troy.
• Fast Break Points: MVSU edged Troy 13-11 in transition, demonstrating their speed and hustle.

Troy's Highlights

Troy was led by Zay Dyer, who recorded a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds. Despite Dyer's standout performance, Troy struggled to protect the ball and missed key opportunities in the fourth quarter.

Turning Point

The Devilettes launched a decisive 11-0 scoring run in the fourth quarter, erasing Troy's eight-point lead. Defensive stops and clutch plays by Gresham and Jones helped seal the victory.

This win brings MVSU to a 1-5 record, injecting confidence into the team as they look forward to their next matchup. Their determination and depth were on full display, leaving fans hopeful for more exciting victories this season.