College Park, GA – The Mississippi Valley State Devilettes are still dancing! In a thrilling opening-round battle of the SWAC Tournament at the Gateway Center Arena, MVSU edged past Florida A&M 68-65 in an overtime showdown, punching their ticket to the next round.
The Devilettes (9-22, 6-12 SWAC) showed resilience and heart, overcoming multiple deficits in a back-and-forth contest that featured six ties and 19 lead changes. Led by Jaylia Reed's clutch shooting, Clemisha Prackett's dominance in the paint, and a gritty defensive effort, MVSU sealed the deal with a strong closing stretch in overtime.
Devilettes Rise in Crunch Time
MVSU's ability to capitalize on key possessions proved to be the difference. Reed led all scorers with 18 points, drilling three triples and sinking crucial free throws late in the game. Prackett added 16 points and eight rebounds, anchoring the inside game, while D'Yanna Maxey chipped in 14 points and eight boards, despite fouling out.
The game was a defensive battle early, with both teams struggling from the field, but MVSU's defensive pressure forced 20 turnovers, leading to 15 points off miscues. The Devilettes also dominated second-chance opportunities, pulling down 17 offensive rebounds to keep possessions alive.
Fighting Until the Final Buzzer
MVSU trailed 29-27 at halftime and entered the fourth quarter down by three, but a late surge, including a clutch three-pointer from Reed, sent the game into overtime. In the extra period, the Devilettes outscored FAMU 11-8, holding their opponents to just one field goal down the stretch.
Florida A&M (9-21, 6-12 SWAC) was led by Saige Glover's 22 points and 16 rebounds, but the Rattlers were stifled in overtime by MVSU's defense.
On to the Next Round
With the victory, the Devilettes now shift their focus to the SWAC quarterfinals, where they will face #1 Southern University with momentum on their side. MVSU is proving that records don't define a team in March—determination does.
The dance isn't over. The Devilettes are moving on!
