Senior Night Recap: Lady Marauders Stun Tuskegee

The Central State Lady Marauders made Senior Night an unforgettable one, delivering a thrilling 58-52 victory over Tuskegee, who entered the game on a 10-game winning streak. The Marauders showcased their signature hard-nosed defense and selfless ball movement to secure the upset in front of an energized home crowd at Beacom/Lewis Gym in Wilberforce, Ohio.

The game began with Tuskegee taking an early lead, outscoring Central State 17-13 in the first quarter. The Lady Marauders struggled offensively in the second quarter, managing just five points, and went into halftime trailing 28-18. However, the team regrouped at halftime and came out strong, holding Tuskegee to just seven third-quarter points while chipping away at the deficit.

The fourth quarter was nothing short of spectacular for Central State, as they erupted for 27 points while holding Tuskegee to 17. Key free throws and clutch plays down the stretch sealed the win. The Lady Marauders' defensive intensity and ability to force turnovers proved pivotal, as they limited Tuskegee to just 31.7% shooting from the field and an abysmal 7.1% from three-point range. The Marauders continued to feed off a crowd that showed up in big fashion for the senior Marauders.  The noise kept the pressure on Tuskegee. 

Co-Players of the Game: Laila Christmon & Diamond Phillips
Laila Christmon and Diamond Phillips played crucial roles in the victory. Christmon finished with 12 points, five rebounds, and two steals, going a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line. Phillips may have only scored five points, but her impact was felt all over the court as she recorded five assists, six rebounds, and five steals, proving to be a defensive anchor for the Lady Marauders.

Other notable performances included Abbigail Peterson, who matched Christmon's 12 points while going 8-for-10 from the free-throw line, and Camryn Nadir, who added 11 points and four rebounds.

Tuskegee's Hilani Cantone led all scorers with 17 points, but her team struggled to find offensive rhythm, particularly in the third quarter, where they managed only one made field goal.

With the win, the Lady Marauders improved to 11-11 overall and 9-7 in SIAC play, positioning themselves for a strong finish to the season. It was a fitting way to honor the nine seniors who have given their all to the program. The energy and passion displayed on Senior Night will undoubtedly serve as a momentum boost for the team moving forward.  They Lady Marauders will be back in action against KSU on Saturday.