DENTON, Texas (Dec. 6, 2024) – The Texas Woman's University basketball team excelled defensively, shutting down the Lady Chaps and limiting them to just 40 points. This marked the fourth time this season and the second consecutive game that the Pioneers have held their opponent under 50 points. Following a 58-40 victory over Lubbock Christian, TWU improved to 4-0 at home before beginning their road stretch.
In a highly anticipated top-5 matchup, TWU (9-1, 2-1) dominated LCU (9-1, 3-1) at home. The Pioneers forced a season high 29 turnovers and recorded 13 steals on the defensive end, with Scout Huffman leading the way with a career high five steals.
Three Pioneers scored in double figures, with Averee Kleinhans leading all scorers with 15 points. Coach Jillson and her team emphasized their defensive effort throughout the game, which allowed them to disrupt LCU's offensive flow and secure an 18-point victory.
IMPACT PLAYERS
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Averee Kleinhans topped the scoring with 15 points and added three assists and two steals.
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Leila Patel contributed 13 points, five rebounds and two takeaways.
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Scout Huffman finished with 10 points, six rebounds, and team high five steals.
PIONEER POWER MOMENTS
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TWU recorded a season high 13 steals, limiting scoring opportunities for LCU.
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The Pioneers forced 29 turnovers from LCU and held them to 38% shooting from the field and 21% from three point range.
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TWU capitalized on LCU's turnovers and outperformed them in bench production, achieving a 20-11 advantage.
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After an initial back-and-forth pace where both teams exchanged points, TWU established an early lead by frequently getting to the foul line. The Pioneers finished the game shooting 72% from the free-throw line (18-25).
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After one quarter, LCU found themselves trailing 17-10. Although LCU made some quality plays to chip away at the deficit, the Pioneers responded effectively, ending the first half with a buzzer-beater jumper from Patel to lead 27-19 at halftime.
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The Pioneers intensified their game in the third quarter, dominating LCU 14-2. Lubbock Christian struggled to counter TWU's pressure and tight defense, entering the final quarter down by 20 points.
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Despite both teams encountering shooting difficulties at times, TWU made crucial shots down the stretch to fend off any potential runs by LCU, securing a commanding victory.
FROM HEAD COACH BETH JILLSON
"Tonight, our team really showcased defensive intensity to limit the scoring of Lubbock Christian. Everyone locked in defensive assignments to hold Lubbock Christian to just 40 points, including just two points in the third quarter. On the offensive end, I was proud of how each and every player stepped up. Our depth continues to be a strength this season, and I'm proud of each player for locking in and bringing their best tonight to beat a great conference opponent."
POST GAME INTERVIEW
Hear from Leila Patel after the game: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqftzMnqdkc
NEXT UP
TWU will wrap up the year 2024 with two away games against Western New Mexico and Sul Ross in the coming weeks. The Pioneers will face the Mustangs on Tuesday, Dec. 17, at 6 p.m., and then take on the Lobos on Thursday, Dec. 19, at 1 p.m.
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