The University of Arizona women’s basketball team (9-5, 0-3 in Big 12) suffered a tough defeat on the road against the undefeated Texas Tech University (16-0, 3-0 in Big 12) with a final score of 80-49 on Saturday, Jan. 3. From the opening tip, the Lady Raiders dominated, quickly seizing the lead and maintaining control for the entirety of the game.
Key Players
Texas Tech showcased their shooting strength, knocking down 13 3-pointers and highlighting their versatile offensive options. Five Lady Raiders reached double figures in scoring, with Denae Fritz leading the way. The team’s impressive depth was evident, as their three main bench contributors combined for 40 of Texas Tech’s 80 total points.
For Arizona, junior guard Tanyuel Welch stood out by leading all scorers with 19 points. She was the only Wildcat able to consistently find success on offense throughout the game.
First Half
Texas Tech set the tone early, controlling the pace and spacing the floor effectively. They forced Arizona into multiple turnovers, which helped the Lady Raiders jump out to a quick lead. Bailey Maupin opened the scoring with a 3-pointer, while the Wildcats struggled offensively, leading them to miss their initial shots and commiting several turnovers before Nora Francois finally put them on the board at the 6:53 mark. Welch briefly gave Arizona their only lead of the game at 4-3, but Maupin responded with another 3-pointer. This was followed by a series of inside baskets that extended Texas Tech’s advantage to 7 points.
Despite Arizona’s inconsistencies, Mickayla Perdue connected on a 3-pointer, and Welch added a jumper. Texas Tech continued to capitalize on turnovers. A late deep 3-pointer from Fritz sent Arizona into the break trailing 22-11.
The second quarter began with Welch scoring inside, but Texas Tech answered with back-to-back 3-pointers from Jalynn Bristow and Adlee Blacklock, pushing the lead to 28-13. Arizona managed a late surge in the quarter, fueled by Noelani Cornfield and Achol Magot, yet Texas Tech’s perimeter shooting and defensive pressure proved too much for the Wildcats. The Lady Raiders entered halftime with a commanding 49-25 lead.
Second Half
Both teams struggled offensively at the start of the second half until Welch scored consecutive layups. This briefly cut the deficit to 20 points, which was the closest Arizona would get for the remainder of the contest. Texas Tech steadily increased their advantage, combining strong rim protection with continued perimeter success. Arizona managed occasional baskets, but each was quickly answered by Texas Tech, who finished the third quarter ahead 66-35.
Cornfield opened the fourth quarter for Arizona with a deep 3-pointer, but Texas Tech immediately countered with another triple from Fritz. The Lady Raiders’ depth and offensive efficiency kept the game out of reach, and they ultimately secured an 80-49 victory.
Looking Ahead
Arizona will now prepare for a home matchup against Kansas State University. After a challenging road game against Texas Tech, the Wildcats aim to improve their execution and bring renewed energy to McKale Center. Arizona will face Kansas State on Jan. 7 at 7 p.m. MST. The game will be available for streaming on ESPN+.
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