The Duke women’s basketball team emerged victorious against Florida Gulf Coast following a sluggish start in the game, achieving an impressive win and rebounding from a previous defeat to Clemson.
Exhibiting their strength and skill, the Blue Devils triumphed over the Eagles with a final score of 82-63, with sophomores Ashlon Jackson and Taina Mair leading the charge with a combined 38 points. The match was intense, with a total of 40 fouls and 31 points scored from free throws. Freshman guard Oluchi Okananwa also delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 18 points, securing five rebounds, executing five steals, and netting one block in just 25 minutes.
Following the game, Head Coach Kara Lawson praised the team’s resilience, stating, “Today is a step forward for us. I’m proud of how they bounced back.”
Okananwa displayed exceptional skill, determination, and composure during the game, with her remarkable plays and relentless effort helping the Blue Devils gain the advantage and secure a lead going into halftime.
Okananwa’s stellar performance continued in the second half, contributing to the team’s overwhelming lead. Her proficiency on both ends of the court, evidenced by her effective guard play and disruptive ball pressure, earned accolades from coach Lawson, who expressed her admiration for Okananwa’s consistent contributions to the team.
Despite a challenging start in the first quarter, where the Blue Devils encountered offensive struggles, they regrouped and seized control of the game. The team’s resilience and adaptability were evident as they overcame early obstacles and established a dominant lead as the game progressed.
Duke’s triumph over Florida Gulf Coast reflects their resilience and determination to recover from setbacks. Looking ahead to future games, the Blue Devils aim to sustain their momentum and build on this impressive victory as they prepare to host Toledo after finals on December 20.
In summary, Duke women’s basketball exhibited their strength, teamwork, and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity, laying the groundwork for an exciting and promising season ahead.