VALDOSTA, Ga. – The VSU women's basketball team rallied around the efforts of Jo Bistrow to capture a big 68-58 Gulf South Conference victory over the Tigers of West Alabama on Monday night at the Complex in Valdosta, Ga.

The Lady Blazers (8-7, 4-6 GSC) opened the first quarter on a high note by knocking down four three-pointers. Bistrow contributed to three of those shots from beyond the arc, which started what would lead to a career-high 19 points on the night for the sophomore. The Lady Blazers held West Alabama to single digits in the first frame and took a double-digit lead at 16-6 as the first quarter concluded.

With the efforts of Ariel Wilson, the Tigers (5-9, 2-8 GSC) managed to stay in the game throughout the second and third quarter. Wilson tallied nine of her 17 points during that stretch, but the Lady Blazers maintained and extended their lead to 12 at 50-38 before the fourth and final quarter.

The Tigers outscored the Lady Blazers 20 to 18 in the fourth quarter, but Mitchell quickly dashed West Alabama's hopes of a comeback by capturing seven of her 11 points to help VSU cap the victory.

Not only did Bistrow end the night with a career high, but she also led the team offensively with her 19-point performance. Aaliyah Cheatham and Lydia Harvey each contributed 12 points in the Lady Blazers' second straight win, while Maddy Corazza grabbed eight boards and scored seven points to lead the team in rebounds.

Valdosta State's 31-point performance off the bench also proved to be a key factor on the night, and the Lady Blazers' edged out the Tigers on the glass with 38 rebounds and 18 offensive boards that led to 15 put-back points for the red and black. 

Up next, the Lady Blazers will take on GSC rival West Florida on Saturday at The Complex. Tipoff time is scheduled for 2:00 pm in Valdosta, Ga.