App State Women’s Basketball Falls to South Alabama in Sun Belt Opener

Image Courtesy Of App State Facebook

The Sun Belt Tournament journey was short but spirited for the App State women’s basketball team. On Tuesday (March 3, 2026), the Mountaineers dropped a hard-fought 68-57 decision to South Alabama in the first-round matchup at the Pensacola Bay Center in Pensacola, Florida. The loss ends the season at 11-19 overall (4-14 Sun Belt) and closes the chapter on a campaign full of grit, growth, and moments that showed what this group is capable of.

The game started tight

App State trailed just 12-10 after the first quarter, but South Alabama pulled ahead in the second with a 24-point burst, leading 36-31 at halftime. The Mountaineers rallied in the third, outscoring the Jaguars 20-14 to tie things up at 50-50 heading into the final frame. But the fourth quarter turned tough: South Alabama clamped down defensively, limited App State’s looks, and closed with an 18-6 run to seal the win. The Jaguars shot efficiently late and capitalized on extra possessions, while the Mountaineers struggled to find consistent rhythm in crunch time.

The Outcome 

Despite the outcome, the effort was there, battling back from deficits, fighting through fatigue, and representing Boone with heart all the way to the end. Elena Pericic and the core group gave everything, turning what could have been a blowout into a competitive battle until the closing minutes. South Alabama advances to face Coastal Carolina in the second round, but App State leaves the floor knowing they competed until the final whistle.

This season had its ups and downs, overtime thrillers, tough road tests, Senior Night emotions, but the Mountaineers showed resilience and growth under pressure. The coach’s squad built a foundation for the future, honored their seniors, and reminded everyone that App State hoops is about more than wins, it’s about the climb, the fight, and the community that backs them.

The 2025-26 ride is over, but the memories and lessons stick around. The players who gave it their all, the fans who showed up, and till next season, when the mountains call again, the Mountaineers will answer louder than ever.