FLORENCE, ALA. - The University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff women's basketball delivered one of its grittiest and most complete efforts of the season Monday night, rallying in the second half and outscoring North Alabama 32-18 after the break to secure a hard-fought 50-48 road victory.
The Lady Lions showed poise, toughness, and maturity down the stretch, earning a win that reflected their growth and competitive edge.
"I thought we started out a little slow, but we showed some fight, some heart, and a real will to win on the defensive end," Head Coach Erica Leak said. "We created key turnovers, got stops late, and converted on the other end when it mattered. That's growth for our team."
UAPB's defensive pressure was the heartbeat of the night, forcing 14 steals, winning the rebounding battle 40-37, and generating 16 points off turnovers. Junior forward Khaniah Gardner controlled the glass with 10 rebounds while adding 7 points and four steals, giving the Lady Lions an interior spark in crucial moments. Offensively, Jailah Pelly led the way with 15 points and repeatedly created opportunities, including the late possession that set up one of the game's biggest shots. Indiya Bowen, who sat much of the first half, entered the fourth quarter with fresh legs and confidence and delivered the momentum-swinging bucket UAPB needed.
"I told her to be ready to attack, be ready to shoot the ball, and be ready to make a play," Leak said. "At the end of the game, Pelly made a great play, drew the defense, kicked it out, and Indyia stepped up with the clutch shot, that's confidence."
Another major bright spot was freshman guard Jakyra Jackson, who contributed 8 points, 3 steals, and the type of fearless play that helped fuel UAPB's second-half surge. Leak was especially proud of her response to a challenge. "I told her to let her defense create her offense, and she responded in a big way," she said. "We haven't seen the best of her yet. She's an Eastern Arkansas kid - near and dear to my heart - and I'm very proud of her."
With the win, the Lady Lions walked off the floor having dominated the paint (24 points), controlled the tempo, and shown the type of composure that wins games on the road. The performance gives UAPB momentum heading into its next home matchup on December 4.
"Arkansas Baptist is a better team and they're well-coached," Leak said. "We're looking forward to coming home and playing in front of our community, our students, faculty, and staff. The energy in H.O. Clemmons Arena means a lot to our team."
