UAPB Lady Lions Pull Off Big Road Upset Win Over Memphis Lady Tigers
Memphis TN–The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Lady Lions opened their 2025–26 basketball season in stunning fashion Monday morning, defeating the University of Memphis 69–64 on the road at the Elma Roane Fieldhouse.
After trailing for most of the game, UAPB stormed back with a dominant fourth quarter to seal one of the program’s most impressive nonconference wins in recent years.
Memphis controlled the tempo early, taking a 36–26 lead into halftime behind strong guard play and active defense. But the Lady Lions refused to fold, clawing back behind the hot hand of senior guard Indiya Bowen, who poured in a game-high 29 points, including 18 in the final quarter. Her scoring burst helped UAPB outscore Memphis 25–10 in the fourth to complete the comeback. Jailah Pelly contributed a double double with 23 points and 10 rebounds in the win.
The Lady Lions dominated the glass, outrebounding Memphis 62–46, which fueled second-chance points and wore down the Tigers late. UAPB also tightened up defensively, holding Memphis to just 29% shooting in the second half.
The victory gives UAPB (1–0) a confidence-building start to the season and momentum heading into its home opener later this week. Memphis (0–1) will look to bounce back as it continues nonconference play.
The Lady Lions return to action Friday November 7, when they travel to Fayetteville to take on the Arkansas Razorbacks. Tip-off is set for 10:30 a.m. inside Bud Walton Arena.
