Southern overtakes Samford late for First Four victory

Jaguars go on 14-2 run to pull away in NCAA Tournament opener

Mar. 20, 2026 at 6:49am

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Jaylia Reed scored 16 points and DeMya Carter contributed 15 as Southern went on a game-ending 14-2 run to defeat Samford 65-53 in a Women's NCAA Tournament First Four matchup in Columbia, South Carolina. The game was tied at 51 with 6:59 left before Reed hit a 3-pointer to spark the Jaguars' clinching spurt.

Why it matters

This victory advances Southern, a No. 16 seed, to the first round of the NCAA Tournament where they will face top-seeded South Carolina. The Jaguars overcame a poor shooting night by forcing 19 Samford turnovers and converting them into 20 points, showcasing their defensive intensity.

The details

Southern shot just 39.7% from the field but made up for it by forcing 19 turnovers and converting those into 20 points. Jocelyn Tate added 10 points for the Jaguars. Briana Rivera scored a game-high 16 points for Samford, who had won 8 of their previous 10 games.

  • The game was played on Thursday, March 20, 2026.
  • Southern will face top-seeded South Carolina on Saturday in the Sacramento 4 Region.

The players

Jaylia Reed

Scored 16 points for Southern.

DeMya Carter

Contributed 15 points for Southern.

Jocelyn Tate

Added 10 points for Southern.

Briana Rivera

Scored a game-high 16 points for Samford.

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What’s next

Southern will face top-seeded South Carolina on Saturday in the Sacramento 4 Region.

The takeaway

Southern's defensive intensity and ability to capitalize on turnovers helped them overcome a poor shooting night and secure the victory over Samford. This win advances the Jaguars to the first round of the NCAA Tournament where they will face a tough test against the top-seeded South Carolina Gamecocks.