TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Texas Southern turned in its strongest offensive performance of the SWAC road swing and matched Florida A&M basket for basket over the final two quarters, but the Rattlers pulled away late to secure an 86–73 win Saturday afternoon at the Al Lawson Center.
The Tigers were led by Taliyah Logwood, who scored 25 points, consistently attacking the paint and converting in transition. Logwood finished 9 of 23 from the field and added five rebounds, providing a steady offensive presence throughout all four quarters.
Texas Southern weathered an early Florida A&M run and remained within striking distance in the opening period behind strong ball movement and interior activity. Daeja Holmes knocked down an early three-pointer, and Aaliyah Henderson created scoring opportunities off the dribble as the Tigers trailed just 17–12 after one quarter.
The Tigers continued to battle through the second quarter, finding success inside despite Florida A&M's pressure defense. Ayanna Jackson scored on second‑chance opportunities, while Logwood added points in transition as Texas Southern stayed within reach heading into halftime.
Texas Southern delivered its best stretch of the game in the third quarter, shooting nearly 59 percent from the field and outscoring Florida A&M 23–19 in the period. Jackson and Henderson combined for key baskets early, and Maci Quiller drained a fast‑break three to trim the deficit to two possessions midway through the quarter. The Tigers closed the gap to seven entering the fourth, 57–50.
The Tigers carried that momentum into the final period, continuing to attack the rim and generate quality looks. Logwood opened the quarter with a jumper and later completed a three‑point play to bring Texas Southern within six. Malaya LeSueur contributed inside, scoring and drawing fouls, while Da'Myiah Lewis finished through contact to keep the Tigers within striking distance.
Texas Southern scored 23 points in the fourth quarter, matching its third‑quarter output, and finished with 36 points in the paint, 15 fast‑break points, and 14 second‑chance points, showcasing the team's physicality and pace. Florida A&M, however, sealed the game at the free‑throw line in the closing minutes.
Henderson added 10 points and six assists, Quiller chipped in eight points, and LeSueur finished with nine points, including clutch free throws down the stretch.
Texas Southern will look to build on its offensive rhythm and interior efficiency as SWAC play continues at home Thursday, Feb. 12, when the Tigers host Southern University at the Health & Physical Education Arena. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m.
