The Talladega College women's basketball team opened its season in impressive fashion Saturday, using a relentless defensive effort and balanced scoring to defeat Truett McConnell University 73–40 on the road.

The Lady Tornadoes forced 30 turnovers, collected 20 steals and turned those opportunities into 42 points as they began the season 1–0.

Tashiana Farmer led Talladega with 17 points on 8-of-10 shooting and added six rebounds. Ty'Veonna Davis contributed 15 points and three steals, while Maddie Presha finished with 14 points and five rebounds.

Talladega took a 14–9 lead after the opening quarter and extended its advantage to 34–21 at halftime. Presha helped fuel the second-quarter push, scoring 10 points in the period.

The Lady Tornadoes maintained control in the third quarter before pulling away in the fourth, outscoring Truett McConnell 23–7 over the final 10 minutes.

Talladega's bench made a major impact, contributing 48 points. Jakhiya Smith added nine points, four rebounds and two blocks, while Aaliyah Golston led the team with eight rebounds.

Te'Nequa Rhodes directed the offense with seven assists and matched Maddison Mitchell with a team-high four steals. Kiersten Usher added three assists and three steals.

The Lady Tornadoes also controlled the paint, holding a 44–8 advantage in points scored inside, and outrebounded Truett McConnell 35–26.

Talladega will look to build on its season-opening victory when it travels to Andrew College on Tuesday, October 27.