CHARLESTON, Ill. – Tennessee State women's basketball continued Ohio Valley Conference play Saturday afternoon, getting strong bench production and defensive effort, but falling 71–45 to Eastern Illinois at Lantz Arena.

The Lady Tigers (2–13, 1–5 OVC) received a team-high 11 points from Aaniya Webb, who also pulled down nine rebounds and added two steals in an all-around performance. Kiki Roberts provided a spark off the bench with seven points and nine rebounds, while Genesis Harris chipped in eight points as part of a balanced reserve effort.

Tennessee State's bench accounted for 28 of the team's 45 points, continuing a trend of depth and energy as the Lady Tigers leaned on non-starters throughout the contest.

On the glass, TSU was aggressive, collecting 13 offensive rebounds that led to 11 second-chance points. Brianna Wooldridge helped set the tone inside, grabbing three offensive boards as Tennessee State consistently worked to generate extra possessions.

Defensively, the Lady Tigers limited Eastern Illinois to 38.1 percent shooting from the field and forced 15 turnovers, applying pressure and contesting shots throughout the afternoon.

How It Happened

Eastern Illinois jumped out early, holding a 13–6 advantage at the end of the first quarter as Tennessee State worked to find its rhythm offensively.

The Panthers extended their lead in the second quarter, sending the Lady Tigers into halftime trailing 42–22 despite continued effort on the defensive end.

Coming out of the break, Tennessee State looked to attack the paint, scoring 10 of its 14 third-quarter points inside. However, Eastern Illinois maintained control heading into the fourth, leading 61–36.

In the final period, TSU continued to battle. A late 6–0 run, capped by a jumper from Xai Whitfield, trimmed the deficit to 67–45 with 1:33 remaining. The Lady Tigers closed the game with seven bench points in the quarter, showcasing continued depth and persistence until the final horn.

Game Notes

• Tennessee State held Eastern Illinois to 38.1 percent shooting from the field.

• The Lady Tigers' bench contributed 28 points.

• TSU forced 15 turnovers on the defensive end.

• Tennessee State collected 13 offensive rebounds, converting them into second-chance opportunities.

• Aaniya Webb finished with 11 points and nine rebounds.

• Kiki Roberts added nine rebounds off the bench to go along with seven points.

Next Up

Tennessee State returns home to the Gentry Center on Thursday, January 25, hosting Morehead State with tip-off set for 10:00 a.m. as the Lady Tigers look to build momentum in Ohio Valley Conference play.