The Mississippi Valley State Devilettes displayed determination and progress in their game against Nicholls State, battling fiercely at the Harrison HPER Complex. Despite a challenging outcome of 67-56, the Devilettes demonstrated key strengths and promising development that will propel their season forward.
MVSU started strong, taking an early lead and showcasing their defensive grit, particularly in the first half where they led 26-23. The team's tenacity on the boards was evident, as they out-rebounded Nicholls State on second-chance opportunities, securing 10 points compared to their opponent's four.
Malaya Jones was a standout performer, contributing 16 points on 7-for-13 shooting while adding critical plays in the paint. Deonna Brister and Elli Garnett were instrumental on both ends of the court, with Garnett securing a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds, a testament to her effort and presence under the basket. Jesslynn Jalomo added a spark off the bench, connecting on two clutch three-pointers to keep the game competitive.
Though the third quarter posed challenges, with Nicholls State pulling ahead during a high-efficiency scoring run, the Devilettes fought back in the fourth quarter. Their resilience shone through with a stellar 81.8% field goal percentage, including a perfect 4-for-4 from beyond the arc.
Coach's emphasis on teamwork and execution was clear, as MVSU moved the ball effectively, with five players recording assists. The Devilettes' 11 fast-break points further demonstrated their ability to capitalize on momentum.
While the final score didn't favor MVSU, the team left the court with valuable lessons and confidence in their capacity to compete at a high level. With continued growth, this performance underscores the potential for an exciting remainder of the season. Fans can look forward to the Devilettes' relentless energy and improvement in upcoming games.