WBB: Arizona breaks losing streak at home against ASU

BY: JASMINE CREIGHTON

The University of Arizona women's basketball team ended their two-game streak by beating Arizona State University home on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 2 p.m.

Arizona fans packed the Mckale Center, with a season record attendance of 8370.  ASU struggled from the field, only scoring 35% in the first quarter, while Arizona forced early turnovers that limited any offensive rhythm that ASU tried to make. Arizona managed to start the game with a 4-0 streak and held the lead the entire first quarter with 15-9.

ASU responded with a much better offense in the second quarter which made Arizona's momentum slow down significantly. Arizona still managed to keep a lead in this quarter despite the pressure from ASU with free throws and some key rebounds. By halftime, the lead was cut by only four, 28-24. 

The third quarter tested the stability of Arizona's lead as ASU wasn't giving an inch. Arizona struggled with turnovers early in this quarter, however, Breya Cunningham carried with rebounds on the inside. As the quarter progressed ASUs defense got more aggressive which backed Arizona into a corner with a couple of contested shots. Arizona ended the quarter with lead but only with a slim score of 44-41. 

ASUs small trail behind Arizona lit a fire under the team. Arizona started the fourth quarter with a 9-0 run led mainly by Jada Williams and Skylar Jones. ASU briefly attempted to abrupt Arizona's momentum but struggled to deliver. With three minutes to go Williams hit a three-pointer that widened the lead to eight and was memorable to the crowd in the Mckale Center. On top of that, Arizona forced some major turnovers in the final minutes of the game, eliminating any chance ASU had to win the game. Arizona ended on a strong note with a final score of 66-59. 

The most memorable players of this game are Jada Williams for Arizona and Jade Loville for Arizona State. Jada Williams led the team to victory with 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists. Williams helped Arizona both defensively and offensively, forcing turnovers and contesting shots. Loville carried ASU with 17 points and 5 rebounds, being their lead scorer and forcing Arizona into a much smaller lead. 

This makes the score in the team rivalry 63-42. ASU still leads overall but Arizona has now consistently won the last six meet-ups.