FORT VALLEY, Ga. – Fort Valley State University women's basketball (3-15, 3-13 SIAC) secured a 61–56 victory over Albany State University (10-6, 0-6 SIAC) on Tuesday evening, for an exciting Winter Homecoming inside the HPE Complex.

The Wildcats came out with energy on both ends of the floor as India McIntosh opened the scoring with a layup in the paint off an assist from Aaniyah Allen. Fort Valley State set the tone defensively early, with McIntosh and Allen protecting the rim and forcing multiple empty possessions. Kimora Wade provided an offensive spark with a midrange jumper as the Wildcats briefly took the lead. The opening quarter featured several lead changes before Fort Valley State trailed by one at the break, 12–11.

Fort Valley State found its rhythm in the second quarter, capitalizing on transition opportunities and crisp ball movement. Allen finished a fastbreak layup before Wade followed with a jumper in the paint to put the Wildcats in front. Makayla Arnold added a key bucket late, and Wade capped the half with another strong finish inside as Fort Valley State carried a 25–24 advantage into the locker room.

The third quarter saw both teams trade scoring runs and the lead change hands multiple times. McIntosh and Allen opened the half with baskets in the paint, while Reya Johnson connected on a jumper to keep the Wildcats within striking distance. Wade continued to attack the rim, and Fort Valley State answered each push with timely stops and transition points. A late surge by Albany State allowed the visitors to take a 45–38 lead into the final period.

The Wildcats responded in the fourth quarter with poise and persistence. Allen knocked down a three-pointer to open the frame, igniting a late rally. Wade followed with back-to-back baskets in the paint as Fort Valley State chipped away at the deficit. McIntosh delivered key scores down the stretch, helping the Wildcats pull within one possession midway through the quarter. Strong defensive pressure and clutch free throws in the closing minutes allowed Fort Valley State to regain the lead and secure the 61–56 Homecoming win.

Allen led all scorers with 20 points, shooting seven field goals and going 5-for-8 from the free throw line. Wade followed with 14 points on five made field goals and a perfect 4-for-4 performance at the charity stripe. McIntosh rounded out the Wildcats in double figures with 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting. Arnold led Fort Valley State on the glass with 10 rebounds, while Allen and McIntosh each added six.

The Wildcats return to action on Thursday, January 29, hosting Spring Hill College at 5:30 p.m