GRAMBLING, La. | Alabama State ran past Grambling State 71-62 on the road Thursday night in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) action, setting the stage for their contest against Jackson State on Saturday.

Alabama State (14-2) used another double-double from Shmya Ward to run to the victory as she poured in 21 points and grabbed 16 rebounds while also recording a pair of steals. Meanwhile, Ayana Emmanuel added 17 points and Jayla Crawford 15 for the Lady Hornets.

The Lady Hornets shot 41.7 (25-for-60) percent from the floor and 37.5 (6-for-16) percent from beyond the arc, while also hitting 78.9 (15-for-19) percent from the free throw line. Alabama State recorded 34 rebounds and forced 24 turnovers.

Meanwhile, Ariel Williams led Grambling State with 19 points.

Alabama State returns to action Saturday on the road against Jackson State, trailing the Tigers by one game in the loss column although they won the first game this season between the two.  

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