Underdog Albany State Delivers Stunning Upset in SIAC Quarterfinals

The first round of the SIAC Basketball Tournament has delivered a March Madness shocker that has the entire HBCU community buzzing. In a stunning upset, the Albany State Golden Rams defeated the Edward Waters Tigers, the 5th-ranked team in NCAA Division II and the top seed in the SIAC East, by a score of 80-49.

The Edward Waters Tigers entered the tournament on a 14-game winning streak and were ranked No. 22 nationally in the latest WBCA Poll. They were widely expected to make a deep run in the SIAC Tournament and potentially earn a berth in the NCAA Division II Tournament. However, the upstart Albany State squad had other plans, setting the tone early and never letting up in a complete team effort.

Albany State set the tone early, jumping out to a 21-8 lead in the first quarter. They continued to apply pressure throughout, leading 37-21 at halftime and eventually building a lead of as many as 29 points.

Na'Haviya Paxton led the way for Albany State, pouring in 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 steals. Her dominant performance reversed the script from the regular season, where Edward Waters had swept both matchups against Albany State in December and February.

"Our team came in with a chip on our shoulder, determined to prove that we belong on the big stage. We played with poise, intensity, and a sense of pride that embodied the true spirit of HBCU basketball."

Continuing the HBCU March Madness Journey

With this stunning upset victory, Albany State advances to the SIAC Tournament semifinals, where they will face the winner of #3 seed Benedict and #2 seed Lane. Their March Madness journey continues, and the HBCU basketball community is captivated by the Golden Rams' ability to rise to the occasion and deliver a monumental upset.

HBCUConnect Perspective: This thrilling upset by the Albany State Golden Rams is a testament to the immense talent and competitive drive within the HBCU basketball landscape. While Edward Waters was the heavy favorite, Albany State's determination and defensive excellence showcase the unpredictable nature of the HBCU postseason. Moments like these inspire the entire HBCU community, reminding us that our student-athletes possess the skill and heart to compete with the best, regardless of preconceived notions or rankings. Albany State's victory is a triumph for HBCU sports and a reminder of the deep well of basketball excellence within our institutions.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.