ATLANTA, GA. — The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff women's basketball team wrapped up a successful 2025–26 campaign Friday night at the Gateway Center Arena at College Park, falling to Alabama State 72–59 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Tournament semifinals. Despite coming up one game short of the championship, the Golden Lions completed one of the program's most promising seasons in recent years.

UAPB finished the year 15–16 overall and placed in the top five of the SWAC regular-season standings among 12 conference teams, marking a significant step forward for the program. The Golden Lions also advanced to the Final Four of the SWAC Tournament, highlighting the continued growth of the team under second-year head coach Erica Leak.

In just her second season leading the program, Leak has continued to build a competitive culture in Pine Bluff. Under her leadership, the Golden Lions produced the 2025–26 SWAC Newcomer of the Year and have established themselves as one of the league's most dynamic teams on both ends of the floor.

UAPB's roster featured two of the SWAC's top-10 scorers, while the Golden Lions' defensive intensity was reflected with four players ranking among the top 15 in the conference in steals per game. The team also boasted one of the SWAC's top five rebounders, demonstrating its physical presence on the glass throughout the season.

Leak's impact has also been evident at home, where the Golden Lions are currently tied for the longest active home winning streak in the conference, turning H.O. Clemmons Arena into one of the toughest venues in the SWAC.


Semifinal Battle
UAPB's offense showcased its unselfish play in the semifinal matchup, putting on a ball-movement clinic with 14 assists on 19 made field goals, but the Golden Lions ultimately fell to Alabama State.

The Golden Lions had four players score in double figures, led by Jasmine Davis, who finished with 17 points, five assists and two steals. Indiya Bowen added 13 points, while Khaniah Gardner contributed 11 points and six rebounds.

Gardner also pulled down four offensive rebounds, helping UAPB generate second-chance opportunities as the Golden Lions grabbed 11 offensive boards and converted them into 13 second-chance points.

Defensively, UAPB forced 19 Alabama State turnovers and turned those takeaways into 15 points, with Jailah Pelly leading the defensive effort with four steals.


How It Happened
After trailing early, UAPB used a 6–0 run late in the first quarter, capped by a three-pointer from Tyra Taylor, to take a 12–8 lead. Alabama State responded, however, closing the quarter ahead 22–13.

The Golden Lions battled back in the second period, trimming the deficit to 24–23 during a 7–0 run. UAPB stayed within striking distance and entered halftime trailing by just one point, 34–33.

The teams continued trading momentum in the third quarter. After Alabama State built a 38–35 lead, UAPB responded with a 5–0 run, highlighted by a basket from Bowen, to take a 40–38 advantage with just over six minutes remaining in the period. Alabama State answered late in the quarter to carry a 49–47 lead into the final frame.

In the fourth quarter, Alabama State gradually extended its advantage while holding off several UAPB pushes. The Golden Lions forced five turnovers in the final period, but were unable to close the gap as the Lady Hornets secured the 72–59 victory.


Game Notes

• UAPB recorded assists on 74 percent of its made field goals.
• The Golden Lions forced 19 turnovers defensively.
• UAPB collected 11 offensive rebounds and scored 13 second-chance points.
• Jasmine Davis led all scorers with 17 points.
• Jailah Pelly grabbed a team-high seven rebounds.

Looking Ahead
Although the Golden Lions fell one game short of the SWAC Championship, the 2025–26 season showcased the program's continued upward trajectory. With a top-five regular season finish, a SWAC Tournament Final Four appearance, and multiple individual honors, UAPB has positioned itself as a rising contender in the conference under the leadership of Coach Erica Leak.

The foundation built this season sets the stage for even greater expectations as the Golden Lions continue to climb the SWAC ladder.