Frankfort, KY — November 20, 2025
In a game that felt like March, not November, Allen University Women's Basketball showed exactly why their name is being circled across the SIAC.
The Lady Yellow Jackets opened the season on the road against a battle-tested Kentucky State team that already had three games under their belt and was riding high after a win over Edward Waters. But that didn't phase Head Coach Olivia Gaines and her resilient squad.
Allen came out swinging.
With poise and pressure, the Yellow Jackets set the tone early, erupting for 24 first-quarter points to take a commanding lead, 24-11. From the opening tip, their energy was undeniable — suffocating on-ball defense, active hands, and second-chance hustle plays painted the picture of a team that wasn't just excited to be back, but ready to send a message.
However, Kentucky State wasn't going to roll over. Riding the momentum of a home crowd and their recent win, KSU stormed back in the second quarter with a 24-point effort of their own — tying the game 35-35 heading into halftime.
Then came the composure.
In the second half, Allen dug deep, leaning on their defense and late-game execution to slowly regain control. Despite a cold shooting fourth quarter, the Yellow Jackets hit clutch free throws and got stops when it mattered most, securing a 66-57 victory and starting the season 1-0 in both overall and conference play.
Head Coach Olivia Gaines:
"Stepping into my first official game of the season on the road with no non-conference games and jumping straight into SIAC play, I couldn't be more proud of how our team responded," said Coach Gaines. "They showed poise, toughness, and trust in one another from the opening tip. To walk out with a win in these circumstances says a lot about their character and the work they've put in. This is a group that's going to compete every night and continue to grow. I'm excited for what's ahead."
Key Performers:
- Jasmine Norman set the tone on both ends, stuffing the stat sheet with 15 points, 4 steals, and 4 rebounds, knocking down 4 threes and energizing her team when momentum was shifting.
- Jamicia Davis was relentless in her first taste of SIAC play, finishing with 15 points and dominating the boards with 7 rebounds. She also went 9-for-14 from the line, attacking the rim with purpose.
- Eboni Clay and Peighton Jambor both added 10 points apiece, combining for 4 assists and 4 steals, providing steady play throughout the game. Amaris Ridgeway added 8 points respectively.
- Macy Brackett was the glue — pulling down a game-high 8 rebounds, dishing 5 assists, and adding 2 steals in a gritty all-around performance.
Allen may have only shot 31.3% from the field, but they made up for it by getting to the line often (21-of-26 on free throws, 80.8%) and forcing 19 turnovers, converting them into 30 points.
A Culture Set in Stone
This win wasn't about just surviving a road test — it was about establishing identity.
Coach Gaines, who has built this program on toughness, details, and pride, saw her team carry that standard across state lines and come out with a crucial win that sets the tone for the season. This isn't a group hoping to be good — this is a group expecting to contend. And now the rest of the SIAC knows it too.
Allen University will look to ride this momentum as they continue their early-season slate. But if this first showing was any indication, the Lady Yellow Jackets aren't easing into the season — they're stomping on the gas.
Next stop for the Lady Yellow Jackets on their 2-game opening season road trip is game at Central State University (OH) - Saturday November 22nd at 4PM.
