NASHVILLE, Tenn. — William & Mary women's basketball defeated Tennessee State, 64-53, at the Gentry Center Complex, securing the win with a strong second-half performance and 22 from Monet Dance on Saturday. 

W&M capitalized on the Tigers' 26 turnovers, converting them into 26 points. The visitors also outscored TSU 24-19 in the third quarter to shift momentum decisively in their favor.

The game began with the Tribe establishing an early lead through efficient defensive plays, including two blocks by Natalie Fox, and three steals. Dance sparked momentum with a fast-break 3-pointer at 6:42, putting W&M ahead. The two sides struggled to find their stride offensively in the opening 10 minutes, as the Green and Gold took a 11-6 lead into the quarter break.

Tennessee State popped back in front early in the second quarter before the Tribe briefly seized momentum with a 6-0 run, highlighted by Dance's layup at 2:23, giving them a 19-18 lead. 

However, the Tigers responded, regaining control in the final minutes of the half, using their own 6-0 spurt to lead 24-19 at halftime.

W&M ignited their momentum in the third quarter with a crucial 3-pointer by Aislinn Gibson at 4:16, which gave them a one-point lead. The Tribe capitalized on their opportunities from the free throw line in the frame, converting 11 of 14 attempts, helping them stay competitive in a tightly contested quarter. Natalie Fox's layup and subsequent free throw at 1:07 tied the score at 40-40, and it would remain tied 43-43 when the buzzer sounded, setting the stage for the final 10 minutes.

The Green and Gold gained a decisive edge in the fourth, pulling ahead with a series of effective plays starting with Dance's layup at 9:42 that tied the game at 45-45. The team capitalized on strong defensive efforts and offensive rebounds, with Fox and Mikeska contributing key baskets to extend the lead. Dance's three-point play at 6:16 put W&M back in front with a lead the Tribe wouldn't relinquish.

Cassidy Geddes and Dynasti Pierce added crucial points to widen the gap, while the defense, led by Pierce's two blocks, held TSU to just 10 points in the quarter. When the dust had settled the Tribe earned its first non-conference road win since 2023, 64-53.

Dance scored 22 points and made all seven of her free throw attempts, for a season-high and game-high. Mikeska recorded four steals and contributed nine points, impacting both ends of the court. Fox added 11 points and collected five rebounds, while also recording two blocks and two steals.

The Tribe returns to action with a trip to Wake Forest on Wednesday. Tip is set for 11:30 a.m. in Winston-Salem and will be broadcast on ACCNX with a radio broadcast on the Tribe Sports Network.