Itta Bena, MS – The Mississippi Valley State Devilettes put forth a strong and determined effort in front of their home crowd at the Harrison HPER Complex, showing resilience and energy in a hard-fought game against Alabama A&M on Saturday night. Despite the final score of 95-76, MVSU showcased impressive moments, teamwork, and determination that highlight their growth and competitive spirit.
From the opening tip, the Devilettes came out strong, taking an early lead in the first quarter with excellent ball movement and aggressive play in the paint. Jaylia Reed led the charge, knocking down key three-pointers and attacking the basket with confidence. She finished the night with 17 points, demonstrating her ability to score in multiple ways and keep the team in the fight.
Kearra Jones had a near-perfect shooting performance, going 4-for-4 from the field and hitting a three-pointer while adding five rebounds to her stat line. Her efficiency helped keep the Devilettes competitive, especially in the early going.
On the defensive end, Aaliyah Duranham was a force on the boards, pulling down a game-high 12 rebounds and challenging Alabama A&M's inside presence. Her hustle and defensive tenacity gave MVSU key second-chance opportunities throughout the game.
Jaeda Murphy showcased her playmaking skills, dishing out a team-high six assists while adding nine points and a three-pointer. Her leadership on the court kept the Devilettes' offense moving and created scoring chances for her teammates.
Despite a tough third quarter where Alabama A&M pulled away, MVSU never backed down. The Devilettes put together a strong fourth-quarter performance, outscoring their opponent 26-28 in the final frame. They continued to push the tempo and knocked down big shots down the stretch, demonstrating their fighting spirit until the final buzzer.
The Devilettes will look to build on this performance as they prepare for their next game. With continued effort and growth, MVSU remains poised to make an impact as they battle through SWAC competition. The heart and hustle displayed in this game are a testament to the team's commitment to improving and competing at a high level.
Up Next: Mississippi Valley State will aim to bounce back as they take on their next conference opponent. Fans are encouraged to keep supporting the team as they continue their journey through the season. Go Devilettes!
