FAMU Women Shock SWAC: Historic 2–1 Start Fueled by Tahnyjia Purifoy

The Florida A&M Rattlers women’s basketball team is making waves early this season with a 2-1 Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) record — marking the first time the program has reached a 2–1 start in conference play since joining the SWAC. Heading into the thick of league competition, FAMU’s hot start signals a shift in momentum and expectations for a program eager to rise among the conference elite.

Tahnyjia Purifoy: Rising Star and Team Catalyst

One of the biggest catalysts behind FAMU’s breakthrough is guard Tahnyjia Purifoy, whose stellar play has turned heads across the SWAC. Purifoy was recently honored by the conference as the SWAC Women’s Basketball Newcomer of the Week, after averaging 17.5 points per game during the week of Jan. 10–13. Her scoring and leadership played a huge role as the Rattlers notched one of the biggest wins in program history.

Purifoy has not only been a reliable scorer but a playmaker FAMU can depend on in clutch moments. In the team’s defining win, she poured in 21 points — the game-high — to lift the Rattlers over Southern University. Her aggressive attack on the rim, combined with her knack for creating offense, has energized the roster and given FAMU a go-to option in tight games.

Historic Win Over Southern — A Statement Victory

On Jan. 10, Florida A&M pulled off a thrilling 60-57 victory against Southern University, a program that was widely regarded as the preseason favorite to win the SWAC. Southern’s strong roster and depth made them a consensus pick to dominate league play this year, but FAMU had other plans.

The upset was more than just a win — it was a turning point that signified FAMU’s competitive legitimacy within the conference. For a program still building its SWAC identity, that victory over an elite opponent is a huge morale booster and proof of the potential that lies ahead.

Looking Ahead: Can FAMU Sustain Its Momentum?

With a 2–1 conference mark, the Rattlers are positioned to build real momentum in SWAC play. The win over Southern has earned FAMU newfound respect from rivals and fans alike, while Tahnyjia Purifoy’s standout performances give the team a legitimate star to rally around.

As the schedule progresses, FAMU will look to capitalize on its early success and continue climbing the SWAC standings. If Purifoy and the Rattlers can maintain their pace, this could be the beginning of one of the most memorable seasons in program history.