Columbia, SC - Basketball returns to The Hive tonight as Allen University gears up for a highly anticipated SIAC doubleheader against Kentucky State University. The evening tips off with the Lady Yellow Jackets at 5:30PM, followed by the men's squad at 7:30PM. With conference standings tightening and playoff positioning looming, both squads will be looking to make a statement.
Lady Yellow Jackets (10-6, 9-5 SIAC) vs Kentucky State (3-12, 3-10 SIAC)
Currently tied for 3rd place in the SIAC East, the Allen women's team enters on a two-game win streak, fresh off a thrilling 68–66 road win over Savannah State. Down by 8 at halftime, the Lady Jackets stormed back with a dominant second-half performance, powered by junior Anissa Tuitt's 23 points, including four clutch 3-pointers.
Tonight, Head Coach Olivia Gaines will lean on her deep, balanced lineup. Tuitt, despite only playing 3 games, is averaging a scorching 15.0 PPG and shooting 55.2% from the field. Sophomore guard Eboni Clay is a consistent floor general at 11.2 PPG with 51 assists on the year.
Rebounding will be a key factor—look for Jasmine Norman and Cassadi King, both strong on the boards, to control the paint. Allen holds opponents to under 69 points per game and forces an impressive 11.6 steals per contest.
With a favorable matchup against a struggling Kentucky State squad (3-12), this could be the momentum boost Allen needs to climb the standings even further.
Player to Watch: Morgan Smith – 10.6 PPG and a team-high 7 steals last game; her defensive intensity could set the tone early.
Men's Yellow Jackets (2-14, 1-13 SIAC) vs Kentucky State (4-8, 4-11 SIAC)
Despite battling through injuries and adversity, Coach Douglas Whittler's squad continues to fight each night with intensity and effort that doesn't always show up in the win column. The men's team will look to bounce back at home, using the energy of The Hive crowd to ignite a breakthrough.
Statistically, the Yellow Jackets have struggled to find rhythm offensively but have shown flashes of promise. Standouts like Naji Wright, Sterling Blakely, and Jacquez Shuler are key pieces capable of taking over in moments. Add in the consistent contributions from Tavaris Bell (14.1 PPG) and Shadale Knight (9.3 PPG, 25 steals), and Allen's rotation is quietly stacking up with underrated talent that's ready to erupt.
While the team currently sits near the bottom of the East Division standings, it's important to note their competitive fire—several losses have come down to single possessions. The opportunity tonight is real, with Kentucky State also navigating a tough season in the West Division.
X-Factor: Emon Glenn – Glenn could be the spark Allen needs to protect home court.
The Buzz
- The Stinger Report will be covering tonight's action LIVE with postgame interviews, insight, and fan reaction and have an exclusive interview with Head Coach Olivia Gaines and several players.
- Student and alumni turnout is expected to be strong with school spirit high after Monday's road win for the women.
- Doors open at 5PM — show your Allen pride and BE LOUD!
