Charlotte, N.C. — Behind a dominant all-around performance from freshman forward Sariah Johnson, the Albany State women's basketball team picked up an impressive nonconference road victory over Johnson C. Smith on Monday, continuing its strong play away from home and building momentum heading back into SIAC action.

Johnson delivered one of her best performances of the season, finishing with a game-high 19 points while shooting an efficient 7-of-9 from the floor. She was relentless on the glass, pulling down eight rebounds, and showcased her versatility by adding seven assists, three blocks, and three steals in 35 minutes of action. Her presence on both ends of the floor set the tone for the Lady Golden Rams and proved difficult for the Golden Bulls to counter.

Veteran guard Na'Haviya Paxton provided steady scoring and leadership, pouring in 17 points and attacking the rim consistently throughout the contest. Paxton's ability to get to the free-throw line, where she converted seven of eight attempts, helped Albany State maintain control during key stretches of the game.

Jada Morgan contributed across multiple facets, finishing with 11 points, five rebounds, and five steals, applying constant pressure defensively and creating transition opportunities for the Lady Golden Rams. Her defensive intensity disrupted Johnson C. Smith's offensive rhythm and sparked several momentum-shifting possessions.

In the frontcourt, Paris Triplett battled inside and added seven points, four rebounds, and three steals, while drawing contact and converting at the free-throw line. Khyla Ragins made the most of her minutes off the bench, knocking down all her shots and scoring seven points, including a timely three-pointer that helped keep Albany State firmly in control.

As a team, Albany State executed with poise, shared the ball effectively, and defended with energy, limiting scoring runs and responding well to pressure situations. The balanced effort highlighted the Lady Golden Rams' depth and continued growth as the season progresses.

Up Next:
The Lady Golden Rams head to the Palmetto State to resume conference play, traveling to face Allen University on Wednesday, December 17.

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ABOUT ALBANY STATE ATHLETICS
Albany State University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II-level intercollegiate athletic program. The university currently fields teams in 11 sports: women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's cross country, men's and women's basketball, softball, men's and women's track and field, women's soccer, baseball, and football with all teams compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), except women's soccer, which participates in the Peach Belt Conference.