MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. | The Alabama A&M University women's basketball team battled through a competitive first quarter before Minnesota used a decisive scoring run to pull away, as the Bulldogs fell 82-44 on Wednesday evening at Williams Arena.
The Bulldogs (3-7) came out poised on both ends of the floor, matching Minnesota's pace and physicality early.
Rakiyah Beal sparked the offense in the first 10 minutes, scoring five early points including a 3-pointer as AAMU trailed just 17-16 at the end of the opening period.
Alabama A&M forced six turnovers in the first quarter, limiting Minnesota's transition scoring and controlling tempo.
Kalia Walker added six points in the frame, connecting on all three of her free-throw attempts, while the Bulldogs' defensive communication kept the Gophers out of rhythm from beyond the arc.
Momentum shifted in the second quarter as the Gophers (7-3) found their stride from the perimeter. Minnesota shot 70.6 percent in the period and hit six three-pointers, outscoring the Bulldogs 30-7 to take a 47-23 lead at the break.
Despite the deficit,
Jaida Belton continued to anchor AAMU on the interior, pulling down crucial offensive rebounds and providing second-chance opportunities. Belton finished the night with eight rebounds, including multiple on the offensive glass.
Beal delivered her most efficient performance of the season, matching her career high of 12 points on a balanced scoring night that included two 3-pointers.
Kamiyha Griffin added seven points, including a third-quarter three that halted a Minnesota run. Walker and Belton each contributed six points, while
Aniya Palmer provided energy on both ends with early scoring and defensive rebounding.
AAMU's depth shined once again as the bench contributed 22 points, marking the team's fourth straight game with 20 or more points from its reserves. Belton and Griffin led that effort, combining for 13 bench points, while
Vanessa Wimberly added three and provided strong perimeter defense.
The Bulldogs also collected 10 offensive rebounds, extending possessions consistently and outworking Minnesota on several loose-ball efforts.
GAME NOTES
- Alabama A&M committed just eight fouls, continuing its season-long discipline on the defensive end
- Minnesota shot 54.8 percent from the field and hit nine triples, using perimeter scoring to create separation
- AAMU forced 12 turnovers and generated points through defensive pressure early
UP NEXT
Alabama A&M closes out its home campaign in 2025 next Wednesday (Dec. 17) as the Bulldogs play host to North Alabama. Tip-off against the Lions is scheduled for 6 p.m. and streamed on SWAC TV.
For complete coverage of Alabama A&M Athletics – Huntsville's only Division I program - check out the official homepage at www.aamusports.com. Remember to follow us on social media: Instagram (@aamuathletics), Facebook (aamubulldogathletics), Twitter (@_aamuathletics) and TikTok (aamuathletics).
