Savannah State University announced a major overhaul of its women’s basketball program ahead of the 2026‑27 season, bringing in a dozen new players who promise to reshape the Lady Tigers' outlook.
A New Era Under Coach Wallace
Head coach Phillip Wallace, Jr. outlined a vision that blends immediate competitiveness with long‑term development, emphasizing the program’s commitment to recruiting talent that can thrive at the NCAA level.
The incoming class consists of nine freshmen, two transfers and one junior college transfer, creating a balanced mix of youthful energy and experienced play.
Key Transfers Bring Proven Skills
Bre Jones, a 5‑5 point guard, arrives from Flagler College where she averaged 4.2 points and 2.0 assists per game and earned all‑region honors at Calvary Day School with a 13‑point, 4‑assist, 5‑rebound, 3‑steal line. Limaya Batimba, a 5‑9 forward, transfers from Stillman College, while Jaylah Sturdivant, a 6‑5 post player, comes from Enterprise Community College with four years of eligibility remaining.
The roster also welcomes high‑school standouts such as Paris Floyd, a 5‑4 guard from Grovetown High who was named Region 4‑AAAAA Defensive Player of the Year, and Kierra Jackson, a 5‑8 forward from Powder Springs whose accolades include Region 3‑AAAAA Player of the Year and a spot on the 2025‑26 GBCA/GACA All‑Star Game.
A Deep Pool of Regional Talent
Additional signees include Maegan Jenkins, Madison Tinker, Jordan Lartey, Kylar Rae Johnson, Jamayah Carthon and Jariah Thomas, each bringing award‑winning performances from schools across Georgia and Alabama. Their diverse skill sets — from perimeter shooting to interior presence — provide the coaching staff with flexible options for every game situation.
With a blend of fresh legs, seasoned transfers and regional recognitions, the 2026‑27 Lady Tigers are poised to compete more aggressively in the conference and beyond. The excitement surrounding the new roster reflects a strategic push to rebuild around talent that can adapt quickly to the demands of collegiate basketball.