Eagles Upset No. 2 Seed Daytona State, Advance in Region 8 Tournament

NICEVILLE, Fla. — MARCH 12, 2026 -  The Tallahassee State women's basketball team delivered a statement win Thursday afternoon, knocking off No. 2 seed Daytona State College, 84–76, in the opening round of the FCSAA Region 8 Tournament.

The No. 7 seeded Eagles battled the Falcons evenly through the first half, with the teams heading into the break tied 41–41. Tallahassee came out of halftime with renewed energy and seized control in the third quarter, outscoring Daytona State 18–8 to swing momentum firmly in the Eagles' favor.

Tallahassee carried that momentum into the final period, where the Eagles came up with key defensive stops and converted important free throws down the stretch to secure the upset victory.

A major factor in the win was Tallahassee's dominance on the glass. The Eagles outrebounded Daytona State 51–44, generating second-chance opportunities and limiting the Falcons' possessions.

Freshman Alahni Lovett provided a huge spark off the bench, leading the Eagles with 22 points while knocking down two three-pointers and adding four steals.

The Eagles also had strong performances from Madeline Penney and Kyana Poitier, who both recorded double-doubles. Penney and Poitier both finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds, to anchor the Eagles inside.

Lili Schmitt chipped in 14 points and six assists, while Ashantay Noble contributed 10 points and six rebounds.

With the victory, Tallahassee advances to the Region 8 semifinals, where the Eagles will play Friday at 7:00 PM ET against the winner of Chipola and Miami Dade. 

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