NASHVILLE – Tennessee State women's basketball continues Ohio Valley Conference play on Tuesday, December 30, traveling to Tennessee Tech for a 5:30 p.m. tip inside the Hooper Eblen Center.

The Lady Tigers enter the matchup coming off a confidence-boosting 76–72 conference win over Southeast Missouri, their first OVC victory of the season. TSU closed that contest with a strong fourth quarter, outscoring SEMO 26–14 behind efficient shooting, balanced scoring, and defensive pressure, continuing steady progress under head coach Candice Dupree.

Now fully into the conference slate, Tennessee State continues to establish its identity in league play. The Lady Tigers have emphasized improved efficiency, aggressive defense, and depth throughout the rotation as they settle into OVC competition.

LAST TIME OUT
Against Southeast Missouri, TSU posted its most efficient shooting performance of the season, knocking down 51.9 percent from the field and 45.0 percent from three-point range. Xai Whitfield led the way with a career-high 22 points, while Sadie Sanchez added 15 points off the bench, including four three-pointers. Brianna Wooldridge contributed 14 points and nine rebounds, and Amiyah Ferguson finished in double figures with 10 points.

The Lady Tigers' bench accounted for 27 points, highlighting the depth that has continued to develop as conference play progresses.

SEASON TRENDS
Tennessee State has shown consistent growth across the season, highlighted by strong rebounding efforts, defensive pressure, and balanced scoring. TSU has recorded season-highs of 82 points, 17 steals, and 40 rebounds in individual games while continuing to generate offense through transition and second-chance opportunities.

The Lady Tigers are led offensively by Aaniya Webb, who paces the team in scoring and three-pointers made, while Somah Kamara anchors the defense with team-leading steals. Kiki Roberts remains one of the OVC's top rebounders, and Erin Martin provides interior presence with shot-blocking and physicality in the paint.

SERIES HISTORY
Tuesday's contest marks the 47th all-time meeting between Tennessee State and Tennessee Tech, continuing one of the Ohio Valley Conference's longest-standing rivalries. Tennessee Tech leads the series 36–10, but recent matchups have grown increasingly competitive as the Lady Tigers continue to close the gap in league play.

WHAT TO WATCH
Fourth-quarter execution – TSU's ability to close games was on display against SEMO, and late-game composure will be key on the road.
Bench production – The Lady Tigers have consistently received meaningful contributions from their reserves, including multiple double-figure bench performances this season.
Defensive pressure – Tennessee State has forced turnovers at a high rate throughout the season, creating transition scoring opportunities that can swing momentum.

TIP-OFF
Tennessee State at Tennessee Tech
Hooper Eblen Center – Cookeville, Tenn.
Tuesday, December 30 | 5:30 p.m.
Ohio Valley Conference Game