ALBANY, Ga. – The Albany State University women's basketball team is set to begin its 2026–27 campaign with a renewed sense of purpose as the Lady Golden Rams embrace their team slogan, "Championship Mindset," heading into the new season.
Under the leadership of head coach Todd Triplett, Albany State enters the new campaign focused on building a winning culture centered around discipline, accountability, teamwork and consistency. The Lady Golden Rams will open their season on Monday, Nov. 9, against the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega, Georgia, with tipoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
Albany State was selected to finish sixth in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) preseason rankings, with two returning players earning preseason All-Conference recognition.
Sophomore forward Sariah Johnson and junior center Paris Triplett were both named to the Preseason All-SIAC Second Team. Johnson returns after averaging 11.1 points and 8.9 rebounds per game last season, while Triplett established herself as a defensive presence in the paint, leading the SIAC with 51 blocked shots.
The duo will be counted on to provide leadership and production as Albany State looks to establish itself as a contender in the conference.
Another important returning piece is sophomore guard Taliah Grier, who brings valuable experience from last season. Grier is expected to play a significant role in the Lady Golden Rams' success as the team continues building chemistry and developing its identity. Her familiarity with the program and understanding of the team's expectations make her a key component of Albany State's championship mindset.
Senior point guard Tiffani Goodman is also expected to play a major role in directing the Lady Golden Rams' offense. The Americus, Georgia, native enters the season as a potential starting point guard and will be looked upon to provide leadership, control the tempo and create opportunities for her teammates. Triplett has expressed strong confidence in Goodman, viewing her as one of the premier point guards in the SIAC. Her experience and ability to lead the backcourt will be important as Albany State looks to execute on both ends of the floor.
The Lady Golden Rams also return guards Jayla Johnson and Kamya Young, along with forward Jolena Gardner and Quantrese Washington. Their experience within the program will provide additional depth as Albany State looks to build on last season.
Alongside its returning core, Albany State welcomes several transfers who bring collegiate experience to the roster. Junior guard Chloe Evans arrives from Albany Technical College, while junior guard Haley Sanders joins the Lady Golden Rams from Chattahoochee Valley Community College. The additions will provide depth and competition in the backcourt.
The Lady Golden Rams will also look for contributions from sophomore guard Taylor Harris and 6-foot-4 sophomore center Chassity McCammon, who add versatility and size to the lineup.
Albany State's incoming freshman class features guards Bailee Canty, Jewel Simmons and Aubrey Norris, along with forward Deanna Lowther. The newcomers will have an opportunity to develop within the program and contribute as they adjust to the collegiate level.
With a combination of returning experience, transfers and incoming freshmen, Albany State will look to establish a balanced roster capable of competing throughout the season.
For the Lady Golden Rams, "Championship Mindset" represents more than a slogan. It serves as the foundation for the team's approach to preparation, competition and accountability. The program aims to develop a mentality centered on competing together, overcoming adversity and maintaining a championship standard every day.
The coaching staff also features assistant coaches Yasmine Fairchild and Sylvester Patterson, along with graduate assistant Ty'Janae Brown. Fairchild works primarily with the team's post players, while Brown focuses on the development of the guards.
The Lady Golden Rams will face an early test against North Georgia, an NCAA Division II program competing in the Peach Belt Conference. The matchup will provide Albany State with an opportunity to evaluate its progress against nonconference competition while continuing to develop chemistry and establish its style of play.
Following Monday's season opener, Albany State will remain on the road for a matchup against NCAA Division I opponent Florida A&M University on Thursday, Nov. 12, in Tallahassee, Florida.
With a blend of experienced returners, talented newcomers and a championship-focused mentality, the Lady Golden Rams are ready to begin their journey toward competing for a SIAC title.
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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 12 sports: women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's cross country, men's and women's basketball, softball, men's and women's indoor and outdoor track and field, baseball, and football, with all teams competing in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC).
