ORLANDO, Fla. — The Alabama State University bowling team opened its 2025–26 campaign over the weekend at the Destination Orlando Tournament, competing against one of the nation's deepest fields that featured several nationally ranked programs, including Jacksonville State, Louisiana Tech, Wichita State, and Vanderbilt.

The Hornets finished 18th overall in the 24-team field with a total pinfall of 8,626 and an average of 172.5 per game through five Baker and five traditional matches. Alabama State recorded victories over Sacred Heart and Florida A&M while gaining early-season experience against some of the top NCAA bowling programs.

Individually, Olivia Miller led the Hornets with a 948 series over five traditional games, averaging 189.6 pins to finish as the team's top performer. Nevaeh Williams followed closely with a 914 series (182.8 avg), while Taylor Lee added consistent scoring with 869 pins (173.8 avg). Rounding out the Hornet lineup were Jenna Knight (821, 164.2 avg) and Nikia Thomas (669, 133.8 avg).

Alabama State posted its best traditional match in the final block with a 916–806 win over Maryville University, while also topping Florida A&M in Baker play (940–811).

Alabama State returns to action next month at the Track Kat Klash hosted by Sam Houston State University in Houston, Texas.