PINE BLUFF, AR. – The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) women's basketball team will make its highly anticipated home debut Monday, November 9, hosting Arkansas Baptist College at H.O. Clemmons Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. as the Lady Lions celebrate Education Day, welcoming elementary students from across the region for a special morning of basketball, education, and community engagement.

The annual Education Day event provides local students an opportunity to experience college athletics firsthand while encouraging academic achievement, school spirit, and the importance of higher education. Students will have the chance to cheer on the Lady Lions and experience the excitement of collegiate basketball in a fun, energetic environment.

Monday's matchup also marks UAPB's first home appearance of the 2026–27 season after opening the campaign with road contests against Texas A&M and Tarleton State.

Under third-year head coach Erica Leak, the Lady Lions are looking to build on a successful 2025–26 campaign that saw the program finish 15–16 overall and 10–8 in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) play. UAPB advanced to the semifinals of the SWAC Women's Basketball Tournament, finishing one victory shy of the conference championship game.

The Lady Lions return several key contributors, led by senior guard Indiya Bowen, the reigning SWAC Newcomer of the Year and First-Team All-SWAC selection. Bowen was also named the 2026–27 SWAC Preseason Player of the Year after averaging 14.9 points per game last season.

Senior guard Jailah Pelly returns after averaging 12.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per contest, while senior forward Khaniah Gardner provides a strong presence inside after averaging 8.6 points and a team-leading 6.6 rebounds last season.

Senior guard Jasmine Davis, along with returning contributors Jakyra Jackson and Tyra Taylor, gives UAPB an experienced core as the team continues building toward conference play.

The Lady Lions will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage against Arkansas Baptist, a familiar opponent. UAPB defeated the Buffaloes 85–51 last season at H.O. Clemmons Arena.

Beyond the action on the court, Education Day reflects UAPB Athletics' continued commitment to community outreach, youth development, and creating meaningful connections between student-athletes and the next generation of Golden Lions.

With local schoolchildren expected to bring energy and excitement to the arena, Monday's home opener promises to be a memorable experience both on and off the court.

Game Information

• Matchup: Arkansas Baptist College at UAPB
• Date: Monday, November 9, 2026
• Time: 11 a.m. CT
• Location: H.O. Clemmons Arena – Pine Bluff, Ark.
• Promotion: Education Day
• Live Stream: SWAC TV – SWACTV.org
• Live Stats: uapblionsroar.com/live or the free UAPB Athletics App