The Baylor women’s basketball team exhibited their offensive prowess in a commanding 71-51 victory over Oregon, effectively dismantling the Ducks’ 2-3 zone defence. Head coach Nicki Collen spoke highly of her team’s shooting ability, emphasizing their comfort in attacking zone defences early in the season.
This win signifies Baylor’s seventh consecutive victory, equalling their best start to a season since 2019-20. Although they did not reach an 80-point mark for the first time this season, Collen expressed pride in her team’s ability to find alternative methods to secure wins. Freshman forward Darianna Littlepage-Buggs led the team in scoring for the second consecutive game, totaling 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals.
In addition to Littlepage-Buggs’ outstanding performance, graduate student forwards Dre’Una Edwards and Aijha Blackwell also made significant contributions, scoring 14 and 10 points, respectively. Blackwell also secured a team-high 12 rebounds, achieving her first double-double of the season.
The Ducks’ formidable defensive line-up, comprised of players with remarkable height, posed a challenge for Baylor. Littlepage-Buggs acknowledged the difficulties of playing against taller opponents, emphasizing the adjustments required to navigate their length.
Despite the persistence of the Ducks, Baylor maintained a solid lead throughout the game, ultimately securing a comfortable 20-point win. The team’s tenacity and defensive prowess were evident in their ability to force 20 turnovers and record 21 assists on 28 made shots.
Looking forward, the Bears anticipate a brief hiatus for final exams before returning to nonconference competition against Delaware State on December 14th. With an undefeated record in early December, graduate student Aijha Blackwell emphasized the team’s focus on the bigger picture, recognizing the long season ahead and the need for continued hard work and determination.
In conclusion, Baylor’s impressive victory over Oregon not only showcases their offensive abilities but also highlights the team’s resilience and adaptability in overcoming challenging opponents. As they maintain their unbeaten streak, the Bears remain focused on their ultimate goal, displaying a relentless pursuit of excellence both on and off the court.