The Old Dominion women’s basketball team emerged victorious with a 66-58 road win against Texas State after facing a 14-point deficit in San Marcos, Texas. Assistant coach Roland Jones Jr. characterized the game as a “trap game” and highlighted the importance of securing wins on the road to achieve championship success.
With a current record of 15-5, 7-3 Sun Belt, the Monarchs found themselves trailing 38-24 in the third quarter before mounting a comeback. Brenda Fontana’s three-pointer and a layup by junior forward Simone Cunningham narrowed the gap to 42-40. Despite Texas State maintaining a 46-42 lead going into the final quarter, ODU’s strong defensive play allowed them to find their offensive rhythm.
The relentless defence of ODU unsettled the Bobcats, prompting the Monarch offence to elevate their performance. An 8-0 run, initiated by Lanetta Williams’s hook shot, gave the Monarchs their first lead. Ultimately, ODU secured the win, with Fontana’s exceptional free throws and layups ensuring victory.
When questioned about the halftime message, Coach Jones stressed the importance of regaining focus and energy to level the playing field. The team’s starting five, consisting of Clark, Fontana, Buford, McLaughlin, and Cunningham, played a crucial role in clinching the victory. Clark and Fontana each contributed 13 points, while Buford, McLaughlin, and Cunningham added 11, 10, and 8 points respectively. Not only did Cunningham lead the team with nine rebounds, but Williams and Halima Salat each recorded a block, while six different players combined for eight steals.
The Monarchs displayed efficiency in shooting, with a field goal percentage of 42.3% and a free throw percentage of 70.4%. Furthermore, they outscored Texas State in the paint and on fast breaks, showcasing their well-rounded performance.
The game held particular significance as it coincided with Texas State’s Youth Field Trip Day, which saw over 3,300 elementary school students in attendance. Jones attributed the electrifying atmosphere in the stadium to boosting the team’s morale and contributing to their victory.
Looking ahead, ODU will face Arkansas State, with Jones emphasizing the importance of continuing their winning streak on the road. Despite the challenges posed by Arkansas State, Jones conveyed confidence in the team’s ability to secure another crucial victory.
In conclusion, the Monarchs’ impressive performance against Texas State solidified their position as a strong contender in the league. Their ability to overcome a significant deficit and emerge victorious demonstrates their resilience and determination to succeed in the competitive realm of women’s college basketball.