LEBANON, Ill. — The Delta State University women's basketball team opened its 2026-27 season Monday evening, falling 79-66 to McKendree University at the Harry M. Statham Sports Center. Despite the loss,
Jariyah Williamson and
Adyson Roberts each turned in career-best performances to lead the Lady Statesmen offensively.
Williamson paced Delta State with a career-high 27 points, shooting 8-of-17 from the field, including 3-of-7 from beyond the arc. She also knocked down eight free throws and added four rebounds. Roberts followed with a career-high 20 points, going 7-of-20 from the floor and 2-of-7 from three-point range while collecting five rebounds.
The Lady Statesmen opened the contest with an impressive first quarter, matching McKendree point for point as both teams finished the opening period tied at 14. Delta State carried that momentum into the second quarter, using timely baskets from Williamson and Roberts to build a four-point advantage. The Lady Statesmen headed into halftime with a 28-27 lead.
Delta State continued to battle coming out of the break, but McKendree found its offensive rhythm in the third quarter. The Bearcats outscored the Lady Statesmen 26-15 in the period to take a 53-43 advantage into the final 10 minutes.
The Lady Statesmen showed offensive life in the fourth quarter, putting together their highest-scoring period of the night with 23 points. However, McKendree matched that production with 26 points to maintain its lead and secure the 79-66 victory.
Delta State finished the evening shooting 39% from the field (23-of-59), including 6-of-22 from three-point range. The Lady Statesmen also converted 14-of-19 attempts at the free-throw line.
DNaylah Williams added 12 points and seven rebounds in her Lady Statesmen debut, while JNyria Kelly contributed seven rebounds. Delta State also finished with 35 rebounds as a team.
McKendree was led by Baylie Parks, who recorded 17 points and 13 rebounds. Emma Slings added 15 points and eight assists, while Morgan Feil finished with 13 points.
The Lady Statesmen will look to bounce back as they will host the Lady Bisons Friday evening at Walter Sillers Coliseum.
