COLUMBIA, S.C. -- For the second straight season, Southern University's women's basketball team proved it belongs on the March stage, powering past Samford University 65–53 in the NCAA First Four behind a dominant performance from DeMya Porter.
The Jaguars were tested early in a tightly contested first half, carrying only a 27–24 lead into the break. Samford continued to push, and by the end of the third quarter, the game was locked at 44-44.
But championship poise showed in the final frame. Southern erupted for a 21-9 fourth quarter, turning a nail-biter into a statement win and punching through the First Four once again.
Key Stats to Victory
Southern's win was built on effort, execution, and dominance in key areas:
Southern turned defense into offense and overwhelmed Samford with physical play inside
By The Numbers
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Final Score: Southern 65, Samford 53
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Record: Southern improves to 20–13
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Field Goal %: 39.7% (Southern) vs 35.3% (Samford)
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3-Point %: 35.7% (Southern) vs 29.6% (Samford)
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Free Throws: 14–22 (Southern)
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Lead Changes: 11
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Times Tied: 10
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Time Leading: Southern led for 24:22
The Bigger Picture
Southern's back-to-back First Four wins signal more than just survival—they signal growth.
With depth, defense, and stars in Porter and Jaylia Reed, the Jaguars continue to show they are built for March moments. Jocelyn Tate added 10 more points and pulled down seven rebounds. And once again, they delivered.
Back-to-Back First Four Winners
This wasn't just a win—it was a statement.
Southern:
Improved to 20-13 on the season
Won a First Four game for the second straight year
Continued building a reputation as a dangerous March program
Up Next:
Southern moves on to the first round of the NCAA Tournament to face #1 South Carolina on Saturday at 1 PM EST.
Tip-off: 1 p.m.
Opponent: University of South Carolina
Location: Colonial Life Arena
TV: ABC
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