LAFAYETTE, La. —  The Delta State University Women's Basketball team opened the 2025–26 season in impressive fashion Friday night, taking down Division I opponent Louisiana 76–68 inside the Cajundome. The Lady Statesmen controlled the game from the opening tip, showcasing balanced scoring, relentless rebounding, and clutch execution down the stretch to earn a statement road win.

Junior forward Alyse Holliman dominated the paint, finishing with a monster 17 points and 16 rebounds for her first double-double of the season. Her physical presence fueled Delta State's +19 rebounding margin (53–34), which proved decisive in the victory.

Bramyia Johnson led all scorers with 19 points, hitting 3-of-4 from beyond the arc while adding nine rebounds and a steal in 26 minutes of action. Jariyah Williamson filled the stat sheet with 16 points, nine boards, and four assists, attacking the rim and drawing fouls to keep the Lady Statesmen in control.

Senior Olivia Allen made a strong debut with eight points and six rebounds, while Madi Kate Vuncannon and Adyson Roberts each chipped in timely buckets to keep the momentum rolling. Delta State's bench contributed 33 points, a testament to the team's depth and balance.

The Lady Statesmen led 32–24 at halftime after holding Louisiana to just 25% shooting from the field in the first half. In the second half, Delta State weathered a late Ragin' Cajuns push with steady defense and clutch free-throw shooting, going 20-for-30 from the line overall.

Head coach Tracy Stewart-Lange's squad also turned defense into offense, forcing 16 turnovers and turning them into 24 points. The team's energy and poise in transition were key in fending off Louisiana's late fourth-quarter surge.

Delta State will kick off the 2025-26 regular season with a trip to Fairfield, Ala., next Friday to take on the Golden Bears from Miles College. Tipoff next Friday will be at 5:30 p.m. (CT)