Late Surge Lifts Lady Greyhounds Past SAU Tech to Open 2026
West Memphis, ARK -
The ASU Mid-South Lady Greyhounds opened the 2026 calendar year with a hard-fought 45–39 victory over SAU Tech on Wednesday night in The Dog House, grinding out a defensive battle that came down to the final minutes.
Both teams struggled to find an offensive rhythm in the opening half, with buckets coming at a premium on both ends of the floor. ASU Mid-South was able to scratch out a narrow 17–16 lead at the break as defense dictated the tempo throughout the first two quarters.
The pace improved coming out of the locker room, as both teams showed more confidence offensively to begin the second half. The Lady Greyhounds were able to capitalize just enough to create separation, pushing their advantage to four points heading into the final period.
SAU Tech made its push in the fourth quarter, rallying to briefly take the lead and putting pressure on the home crowd. However, ASU Mid-South responded with a timely late run, locking in defensively and converting key possessions down the stretch to seal the six-point win.
SAU Tech was led by Shelby Gray, who provided a spark off the bench with a team-high 15 points. Aniyah David added eight points, Hannah Wilson chipped in six, while NyAsia Jackson and Marniyah Willis finished with five points apiece.
ASU Mid-South was paced by a dominant performance from Lula-Jae Tranfaglia, who recorded a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Cadence Irby followed closely with 15 points, while Serenity Austin added seven points off the bench. Alana Whiten finished with five points, and Areinna Manson contributed two.
The win improves the Lady Greyhounds to 4–14 overall and 1–3 in conference play.
ASU Mid-South will look to build on the momentum when they return to The Dog House on Wednesday, January 14, hosting South Arkansas College. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m.
