WKU Women’s Basketball defeats UTSA

Emilee Arnold

WKU freshman guard Acacia Hayes (10) puts up a three-pointer during the matchup with FAU in E.A. Diddle Arena on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023. WKU won 66-65.

Cole McIntire

WKU Women’s Basketball (12-9, 9-3 C-USA) defeated University of Texas San Antonio (5-16, 3-9 C-USA) 73-67 on Thursday, Feb. 2 at the Convocation Center. 

The Lady Toppers have now won three straight and are trailing only Middle Tennessee State University in the Conference USA standings. 

The team was dominant on the offensive glass. WKU snagged 20 offensive rebounds compared to UTSA’s 10. The Lady Toppers were able to create 26 second chance points.

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WKU was efficient from the free throw line. They created 15 attempts and converted 13. Bench points were at a premium, with reserves tallying 27.  

Sophomore guard Alexis Mead led the Lady Toppers in scoring. She scored 19, shooting four of six from the three point line. Mead was able to hit two clutch free throws at the end of the game, extending the lead to two possessions. 

The first quarter was even between the two squads. WKU struggled with shooting, going 5-20 from the field in the quarter. However, the Lady Toppers were able to force seven UTSA turnovers and grab three steals in the quarter. 

The second was once again closely contested. WKU had eight offensive rebounds and controlled the paint in the quarter. At the end of the half the score was 32-31.

The second half opened with a three point shot by Alexis Mead. The Roadrunners responded by going on a 9-6 run creating separation. The teams traded baskets, but UTSA created separation. UTSA created a 49-47 lead, but the Lady Toppers sparked a 6-2 run, making the score 53-49.

In the fourth quarter the Lady Toppers were able to continue their dominance of the closing stages. With 2:10 left in the game and WKU leading 69-67, the Lady Toppers closed the game scoring six straight. 

The Lady Toppers will travel to El Paso, Texas to play University of Texas at El Paso on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 2  p.m. CT.

Sports reporter Cole McIntire can be reached at [email protected] .