BY JAY SLEDGE

In this early conference test, Wilberforce showed flashes of promise but could not overcome a slow start and offensive inefficiency. The Tornadoes' ability to convert turnovers into points and their consistent scoring across all four quarters underscored their control of the game.

The Lady Bulldogs faced challenges offensively, managing just 30.6% shooting from the field, and struggled from long range, connecting on only 11.1% of their three-point attempts. Free throw struggles also hampered their efforts, with the team converting 58.3% from the line. Despite their shooting woes, Wilberforce showed grit on the boards, out-rebounding Talladega 44-42 and scoring 18 second-chance points. Turnovers, however, proved costly, as the Bulldogs committed 26, leading to 26 points for Talladega.

Talladega College, now 1-0 in conference play, displayed a balanced attack and capitalized on Wilberforce's mistakes. DeJaria Lewis dominated the paint with 18 points and 9 rebounds, shooting an impressive 9-for-11 from the field. Beautiful Curry added 13 points and 8 rebounds, while Kameron Jones contributed 9 points and 8 boards. The Tornadoes' defense also shined, generating 11 steals and converting turnovers into points to maintain control throughout the game.

The Bulldogs were led by Constance Chaplin's stellar individual performance. Chaplin tallied a game-high 21 points and 7 rebounds, spearheading Wilberforce's efforts to remain competitive. Daijah Anderson provided an efficient spark off the bench, contributing 10 points on a perfect 5-for-5 shooting night, helping Wilberforce fight back during critical stretches of the game.

As they look ahead to their next matchup, the Bulldogs will need to address turnover issues and find consistency on offense to remain competitive in the conference standings.