Southern Dominates Florida A&M Behind Gourdine’s Stellar Double-Double
Aniya Gourdine led the charge for the Jaguars with a dazzling all-around game, notching her first double-double of the season with 18 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists, and four steals.
BATON ROUGE, La. — Southern University turned up the heat Saturday afternoon at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, dismantling Florida A&M 77-61 in a performance that showcased their depth, grit, and star power. Aniya Gourdine led the charge for the Jaguars with a dazzling all-around game, notching her first double-double of the season with 18 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists, and four steals.
The Jaguars started steady but found their groove as the game wore on. After an evenly matched first quarter ended tied at 16, Southern ramped up their intensity in the second, outscoring the Lady Rattlers 20-13 to seize control. A string of fast breaks and pinpoint three-pointers electrified the crowd as the Jaguars took a 36-29 lead into the locker room.
The Lady Rattlers didn’t back down, battling to stay in striking distance in the third quarter. But every time Florida A&M gained a little momentum, Southern responded with a defensive stand or clutch bucket. The Jaguars forced 21 turnovers and never let their opponents get comfortable. By the time the fourth quarter rolled around, the outcome felt inevitable.
Southern's defensive tenacity translated into offensive fireworks. Aleighyah Fontenot delivered 15 points with three steals, while Taniya Lawson, Tionna Lidge, and D’Shantae Edwards each chipped in double-digit scoring. Altogether, five Jaguars scored in double figures, a testament to their balanced attack and unselfish play.
“Our team chemistry is clicking right now,” said Southern head coach Carlos Funchess. “Aniya [Gourdine] was phenomenal today, but the way everyone contributed made the difference. This was a complete team effort.”
Breaking Down the Numbers
Southern shot an impressive 46.7% from the field (28-of-60) and connected on 37.5% of their three-point attempts (6-of-16). They also showed poise at the free-throw line, hitting 15-of-20 attempts.
On defense, the Jaguars were relentless, recording 14 steals and converting turnovers into easy baskets. Florida A&M shot a respectable 42.3% from the field but couldn’t keep pace with Southern’s depth or intensity.
Rebounding was another key for the Jaguars, who edged the Lady Rattlers 30-26 on the glass, including 18 defensive boards.
Gourdine’s performance was the story of the day, but the contributions from the rest of the team ensured this win was never in doubt.
Looking Ahead
With their second consecutive conference victory, Southern is building momentum as the season heats up. The Jaguars are proving they’re not just contenders in the SWAC—they’re a team with the potential to dominate on both ends of the floor.
The win sent a message: Southern is hitting its stride, and the rest of the league had better be ready.
