Dolphins’ Non-Conference Journey Concludes with Heartbreaker in Alabama

The Jacksonville women’s basketball squad succumbed to the Alabama Crimson Tide 93-46 on Sunday afternoon, marking the final non-conference encounter of the season.

The Dolphins (6-6) were spearheaded by sophomore forward Saniyah Craig, who concluded with a team-best 11 points, marking her fourth double-digit scoring outing of the season. Additionally, Craig secured a team-high five rebounds.

Jacksonville commenced strong in the initial quarter, with senior guard Priscilla Williams putting the Dolphins on the scoreboard early with two inside baskets. Craig capitalized on a perfect assist from Williams and then retrieved her own missed shot to net the put-back, granting Jacksonville an 11-10 lead early on.

Alabama surged ahead late in the first quarter, closing the period with a 15-13 advantage. The Crimson Tide’s offensive unit dominated during the second quarter, leading 47-24 at halftime.

The host team maintained their excellent shooting from beyond the three-point line and extended their lead in the second half. Alabama converted 14-26 from beyond the arc, hitting 9-12 in the second and third quarters.

Despite the outcome, the Dolphins displayed their skills down the stretch. Jacksonville mounted a 9-0 run towards the conclusion of the third quarter, spearheaded by freshman guard Comari Mitchell, to narrow the gap. Sophomore guard Bailey Burns concluded with 10 points, marking the first double-digit performance of her career.

Game Insights

• The Dolphins completed non-conference competition with a record of 6-6, improving from a 4-9 performance last season.
• Besides her inaugural double-digit game, Burns has netted at least seven points in three of her last four matches.
• Junior guard Julene Royale registered a season-high five points and a career-best five rebounds.
• Sophomore center Jada Jones recorded a season-high two blocks, while graduate student forward Makayla Edwards achieved a season-high three steals.

Next Up
The Dolphins will kick off conference action on the road in the upcoming year. Jacksonville will face the Central Arkansas Bears at 6 p.m. on Thursday, January 2.