Russellville, Ark. – Texas A&M International women's basketball opened its 2025-26 campaign on the road Friday afternoon, falling 102-71 to Arkansas Tech at Tucker Coliseum. The Dustdevils battled throughout but were unable to overcome a fast start by the Golden Suns, who built an early lead and maintained control for all four quarters.

TAMIU opened the afternoon scoring 16 first-quarter points while Arkansas Tech struck for 28 to seize early momentum. The Dustdevils found more rhythm in the second frame with 22 points, but the Golden Suns continued their efficient scoring to send TAMIU into the locker room trailing 53-38 at halftime.

Out of the break, the Dustdevils were limited to 14 points in the third quarter as Arkansas Tech extended its lead with a 23-point period. TAMIU closed the game with a stronger fourth quarter, adding 19 points and connecting on a pair of threes, but the deficit proved too large to overcome.

Junior guard Aaliyah McMillan led the Dustdevils with 16 points, going 10-for-16 at the free-throw line while adding three rebounds and a steal. Junior forward Dacia Jones contributed 10 points and five boards, while senior forward Deannasty Smith added nine points and three rebounds. Senior center Racheal Emmanuel anchored the interior with a team-high 12 rebounds to go along with five points.

The Dustdevils return to action on Thursday, Nov. 20, when they travel to face Drury University. Tipoff is scheduled for 11 a.m.