ALBANY, Ga. — The Central State women's basketball team battled through three quarters Saturday afternoon but saw the game slip away in the final period, falling 72–52 to Albany State Lady Rams at the HPER Gym Complex.

The Marauders (2–13, 1–11 SIAC) stayed within striking distance for much of the contest. After trailing 32–23 at halftime, Central State responded with its best offensive quarter of the day, shooting 56.3 percent in the third period to close the gap and enter the fourth quarter down just 44–43.

Albany State (9–3, 8–3 SIAC) seized control early in the final frame, opening with a decisive run and outscoring the Marauders 28–9 over the final 10 minutes to secure the win.

Guard Calyanna Cage led Central State with a game-high 19 points while logging all 40 minutes. Ma'Kayla Williams added 10 points off the bench, and Mikayla Young pulled down a team-best nine rebounds. The Marauders finished with 30 points in the paint and collected 16 points from the bench.

Central State shot 40.0 percent from the field but struggled from the perimeter (2-for-12) and at the free-throw line (10-for-24). Turnovers and second-chance opportunities proved costly, as Albany State converted 34 points off turnovers and 25 second-chance points.

The Lady Rams were led by Sariah Johnson's 20 points and nine rebounds, while Jada Morgan chipped in 19 points. Albany State shot 57.1 percent in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach.

Central State returns to SIAC action looking to build on the strong third-quarter performance as the Marauders continue conference play next week.

Gametime will be at noon vs LeMoyne-Owen on Wednesday January 14th, come enjoy an early afternoon special in Beacom Lewis Gymnasium.