FAMU Women’s Basketball Faces Critical Road Tests

News Summary

The FAMU women’s basketball team is set for an important road trip following a tough home defeat. With a 4-5 record in the SWAC, they aim to break their losing streak against Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern. Coach Bridgette Gordon emphasizes improving turnovers and fouls management while highlighting the team’s potential to turn things around. This weekend’s games are crucial for both team morale and conference standings as they seek their first road win this season.

FAMU Women’s Basketball Set for Road Challenges

The sunny city of Tallahassee is buzzing as the Florida A&M University (FAMU) women’s basketball team gears up for a crucial road trip. Following a tough home defeat against Alabama, where they suffered their first conference loss, the Lady Rattlers are currently standing at a 4-5 record in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). The upcoming games against Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern present a significant opportunity for the team to bounce back.

Focusing on Improvement

Head coach Bridgette Gordon knows that the team has areas to improve on, particularly in keeping turnovers low and managing fouls. The recent game against Alabama highlighted these challenges, as the Lady Rattlers allowed their opponents a staggering 28 free throw attempts, while only managing to have 8. This discrepancy is a major red flag and something the team needs to address moving forward.

It was a frustrating night for Sabou Gueye, a critical scorer for the Rattlers, who unfortunately fouled out early in the fourth quarter of the last game. The coaching staff is now focused on turning the lessons from this defeat into a stepping stone for success in the upcoming matches.

Eye on the Road Ahead

This weekend’s games provide a chance to change the momentum. The Lady Rattlers have been called to sharpen their gameplay, emphasizing defensive strategies, cutting down on turnovers, and improving ball distribution. Securing their first road win in the SWAC this season would not only boost the team’s morale but also enhance their standings in the conference where they are currently in seventh place. Their opponents, Prairie View A&M, are in a challenging spot at tenth with a 2-7 record.

The next challenge comes quickly as they also face Texas Southern, who are currently sitting atop the SWAC and remain undefeated this season. Last year, FAMU managed to defeat both Oklahoma rivals, which gives them confidence going into these games.

Promising Stats and Team Spirit

Interestingly, despite the struggles, the Lady Rattlers are showing impressive stats this season. They lead the SWAC in both field goal percentage and assists—key indicators that they have the potential to be a formidable force. Coach Gordon is well aware of the versatility within her ranks. The exciting part is that any player can rise up and take the lead in scoring on any given night, showcasing the depth of talent in this supportive squad.

However, winning on the road hasn’t come easy for FAMU this season. They have only clinched one conference game outside their home turf thus far, making their upcoming matches even more critical.

Travel Challenges

Adding to the challenge is the travel logistics. A lack of direct flights means that FAMU must take two separate flights to reach Houston for their games putting extra pressure on the players. Coach Gordon is impressed by how her team has formed a culture of sisterhood, reminding everyone that “anyplace is home.” This unity and support could prove vital as they prepare to face their Texas opponents.

Upcoming Game Schedule

The Lady Rattlers will tip off against Prairie View A&M on Thursday at 7 PM before heading to Texas Southern for an afternoon match on Saturday at 4 PM. Fans are hoping to see a revival in the Rattlers’ performance and a strong comeback from what has been a rocky patch in their conference journey. 

As they hit the road, the team and their supporters will be rallying for every shot and cheer, hoping for a victorious turnaround as they continue to forge their path in the SWAC.

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Additional Resources

• The Famuan: FAMU Women’s Basketball Heads to Texas
• Blue Raiders: Women’s Basketball Travels to Tallahassee
• FAMU Athletics: Rattlers Prepare for Senior Day
• Wikipedia: Florida A&M University
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Basketball