Preview

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Interstat) — A surging Jacksonville team will look to extend its winning streak against a Florida A&M squad still in search of its first victory when the women’s basketball programs meet Tuesday at the Alfred Lawson, Jr. Multipurpose Center. The Dolphins (4-1) have won three straight, including a decisive 77-56 home victory over Georgia Southwestern on Nov. 25. Mychal White led the way with 16 points, while Mariah Knight added 13 points and Bailey Burns scored 12 in the win. Jacksonville’s only loss this season came on the road against a power-conference opponent, Florida. The Lady Rattlers (0-7), however, are off to a difficult start. Florida A&M is coming off a 75-54 loss at South Alabama on Sunday. Shaniyah McCarthy scored 14 points in the defeat, while Tahnyjia Purifoy added 12 points and six rebounds. The team has faced a challenging early schedule, including losses to Florida State and UCF. Jacksonville’s balanced offense, which has seen different players step up in recent wins, will be tested by a Florida A&M defense that has allowed an average of 75.1 points per game. The Lady Rattlers will look to Purifoy and McCarthy to generate scoring and slow the Dolphins’ momentum.