BATON ROUGE, La. — Alabama State University faced a stiff test Sunday afternoon, falling 109-41 to fifth-ranked LSU at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

The Hornets (3-8) competed against one of the nation's top programs, but LSU's depth, defensive pressure and efficiency proved decisive from the opening tip. The Tigers (14-0) jumped out to a 28-6 lead after the first quarter and never looked back, holding Alabama State scoreless from the field for extended stretches.

LSU shot 52.4 percent from the floor and turned 28 Alabama State turnovers into 48 points, while also dominating the paint with a 74-24 scoring edge. The Tigers scored at least 25 points in every quarter and built their largest lead at 71 midway through the fourth period.

Alabama State was led by Alanah Pooler, who scored a team-high eight points to go along with six rebounds. Meagan Scott added seven points off the bench, while Charlese McClendon finished with five points and seven rebounds. The Hornets struggled offensively, shooting 28.8 percent from the field and 18.5 percent from three-point range.

Despite the final margin, Alabama State showed improved offensive rhythm late, scoring a game-high 17 points in the fourth quarter.

LSU placed eight players in double figures, led by Kate Koval's 23 points and 11 rebounds. ZaKiyah Johnson added 17 points, while Amiya Joyner and Bella Hines chipped in 19 and 13 points, respectively.

Alabama State opens SWAC play on Thursday, January 1 against Arkansas-Pine Bluff at 6 p.m. in Pine Bluff, Ark.