Bulldogs, Devilettes Open SWAC Play on New Year’s Day AVALON, Miss. (Interstat) — The Southwestern Athletic Conference women’s basketball schedule opens Thursday with a matchup between teams seeking a fresh start. The Alabama A&M Bulldogs (4-8) visit the Mississippi Valley State Devilettes (1-10) at the LeFlore County Civic Center. Both teams enter league play after challenging non-conference slates. Alabama A&M has dropped two straight, including a 58-72 loss at Richmond on Dec. 20. The Bulldogs are led by forward Maori Davenport, who posted 14 points and nine rebounds in that defeat. Over her last five games, Davenport is averaging 9.2 points and 5.6 rebounds. Mississippi Valley State carries a six-game losing streak into the contest, most recently falling 62-86 at UAB on Dec. 20. Guard Ariel Jefferson scored 14 points and blocked four shots in that game. She has been a consistent presence, averaging 7.0 points and 2.0 blocks over her last five outings. The Bulldogs’ four wins have all come at home, with their last victory a 72-57 decision over North Alabama on Dec. 17. Their road record stands at 0-6. The Devilettes’ lone win was a 72-68 home victory over Lipscomb on Nov. 16. Their season has been marked by difficult road games against power-conference opponents, including losses to Oklahoma State, Mississippi and Auburn. This game represents the first of 18 conference contests for each team. Alabama A&M continues its road trip at Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Saturday. Mississippi Valley State hosts Alabama State on Saturday. Tip-off is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.