On Nov. 13, the ULM women’s basketball team (3-0) hit the road to face the Salukis of Southern Illinois (0-3). The Warhawks played their first away game after impressive home victories against Central Baptist and Louisiana College.

The Sun Belt Conference 2024-2025 Preseason Coaches Poll ranked the Warhawks fourth overall. The ranking was two spots higher than their final standing of sixth place in the 2023-2024 season. The Warhawks lived up to the expectations, marking this season’s start their most successful since 2007.

The game proved tense as both ULM and Southern Illinois went score-for-score. In the first quarter, the Warhawks outpaced the Salukis 19-11. However, the Salukis took back the lead, surpassing ULM by three points in the second quarter and four points in the third quarter. The Warhawks stepped up and scored 24 points in the last quarter, bringing home a 79-66 victory. 

ULM’s dominance in the final minutes of the game showed their ability to adjust and execute in high-pressure situations. This was the key factor in the Warhawks’ undefeated opener.

Redshirt junior guard Meloney Thames took the spot as the game’s leader. In addition to an assist and a steal, Thames amassed 27 points, a new career high. 

Senior guard Jakayla Johnson played a total of 19 minutes and collected 11 points, three offensive rebounds, three defensive rebounds and two assists. Johnson also snagged one steal and two blocks.

Senior guard Cianté Downs delivered a strong performance, playing for 28 minutes. She collected 11 points, one offensive rebound, two defensive rebounds and one assist. Downs also secured an impressive six steals, nearly 43% of the team’s steals.

Guard Nya Valentine also played a decisive role in the game. While working the court for 33 minutes, Valentine knocked down seven points, one rebound, four assists and three steals. 

The Warhawks aim to carry their momentum as they return to Fant-Ewing Coliseum for a showdown with the Alabama Crimson Tide on Nov. 17 at 2:00 p.m.