The University of Arizona women’s basketball team (12-16, 3-14 in Big 12) matched up against the University of Houston (7-21, 1-16 in Big 12) on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 6pm in the McKale Center at ALKEME Arena.
Arizona was led by Sumayah Sugapong, who played all 40 minutes. Sugapong scored 20 points, as well as recorded five rebounds. Sugapong shot 6-for-16 from the field, and 2-for-6 from 3-point range. Arizona’s second option was Noelani Cornfield, who played 37 minutes. Cornfield scored 18 points, and shot 6-12 from the floor. Additionally, Cornfield went a perfect 6-6 from the foul line.
The Houston Cougars were led by Kyndall Hunter. Although Hunter only played 30 minutes, she was able to record 21 points and knock down five shots from beyond the arc. Hunter also shot 6-for- 13 from the field.
The Wildcats started off strong in the first quarter, leading by 6 points and entering the second quarter with a lead of 13-7. However, Arizona struggled in the second quarter, as they were only able to score 6 points throughout the entire quarter. On the other hand, the Cougars were able to score 19 points, which allowed the Cougars to take a 26-19 lead entering halftime.
Both teams really began to pick up their pace of play in the third quarter. Arizona was able to score 27 points, while Houston was only able to score 21 points. This allowed Arizona to cut Houston’s lead to just 1 point entering the 4th quarter.
The 4th quarter began with a 47-46 lead by Houiston, but that lead quickly dissipated as the Wildcats went on a roll to score 29 points in the 4th quarter, and held Houston to just 20 points.
Arizona went on to win the game 75-67, showing their endurance and fight as they trailed Houston throughout the night. The Wildcats were able to show their strength as the game went on, winning by 8 points.
Arizona picks up its third conference victory, ending a five game losing streak.
Looking ahead
The University of Arizona women’s basketball team will play at Utah University in Salt Lake City, UT on Saturday Feb. 28, at 5:00 p.m. and will be streamed on ESPN+.
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