MORROW, GA — "Allen has been my dream job for a long time, and I am looking forward to continuing my career in my home state."
Those were the words spoken by Head Coach Olivia Gaines during her introductory interview when she accepted the position to lead the Allen University women's basketball program.
Fast forward two seasons later, and the Chester, South Carolina native has done far more than simply return home — she has helped resurrect a program and transform it into one of the most talked about teams in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and already considered by some one of the hottest young coaches in Division II women's basketball. In just two short seasons, Gaines has resurrected the Allen University women's basketball program into one of the most talked about teams in the SIAC.
Now, Gaines and the Lady Yellow Jackets (18–9) arrive in Morrow, Georgia with momentum and belief as they begin the next step of their postseason journey in the 2026 SIAC Men's and Women's Basketball Championship.
Allen will face the #1 seed Miles College Golden Bears (25–5) on Wenesday at 11:00 AM inside the Clayton County Convocation Center, with a chance to advance deeper into the conference tournament.
The Lady Yellow Jackets earned their place in the quarterfinal round after delivering a dominant 95–41 victory over Spring Hill College in the opening round at John Hurst Adams Gymnasium.
The performance was a statement — one that showcased both the offensive firepower and depth that has fueled Allen throughout the season.
A Balanced Offensive Attack
Allen enters the matchup averaging 74.4 points per game, one of the more productive offenses in the SIAC. The Lady Yellow Jackets have also outscored opponents by nearly eight points per game while shooting 42.4% from the field and 31.4% from three-point range.
Much of that success has been driven by a group of experienced scorers capable of impacting the game in multiple ways.
Leading the offensive charge is Peighton Jambor, who averages 14.7 points per game and has been one of the most consistent scoring threats in the conference. Jambor's ability to attack the basket and score in transition makes her one of the primary focal points of Allen's offense.
Morgan Smith adds another scoring dimension, averaging 11.0 points per game while shooting an efficient 46.9% from the field. Her presence inside allows Allen to balance its perimeter attack with strong interior play.
Veteran guard Eboni Clay has also been a key contributor, averaging 10.8 points per game while knocking down 34 three-pointers this season. Clay's experience and ability to control tempo have been critical in high-pressure moments.
Meanwhile, Anissa Tuitt has emerged as one of Allen's most efficient perimeter shooters, connecting on over 40% from three-point range, giving the Lady Yellow Jackets another dangerous scoring option from beyond the arc.
Players to Watch
Another name that has continued to impact games is Jasmine Norman, who has hit 47 three-pointers this season and is capable of changing momentum instantly with her perimeter shooting.
Allen's depth continues with players like Destini Goodine, Tanaja Kennedy, and Kassadi King, who provide valuable scoring, rebounding, and defensive energy throughout the rotation.
Collectively, the Lady Yellow Jackets move the basketball well, averaging over 15 assists per game, while also applying defensive pressure that generates over 12 steals per contest.
A Program on the Rise
What Gaines has built in two seasons is nothing short of remarkable.
The Lady Yellow Jackets have not only improved their record but have also established a culture built on discipline, defensive intensity, and team-first basketball.
For Gaines, this moment represents more than just another game — it reflects the progress of a program that continues to grow.
And now the challenge gets bigger.
Standing in the way of Allen's next step is Miles College, the tournament's top seed and one of the conference's most consistent programs this season.
But if the Lady Yellow Jackets have proven anything this year, it's that they are capable of rising to the occasion.
The Road Continues
The road to the SIAC Championship is never easy.
But with momentum, confidence, and a roster filled with playmakers, Allen arrives in Morrow ready to compete on one of the conference's biggest stages.
Tip-off between the Lady Yellow Jackets and the Miles College Golden Bears is set for 11:00 AM at the Clayton County Convocation Center.
And for Coach Gaines and her team, the mission is simple:
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