Sun Devils Shine in Commanding Win Over Houston
In an impressive display at Desert Financial Arena, the Sun Devil women’s basketball team secured their 15th win in 16 home games this season with a decisive 81-56 victory over Houston. This triumph elevates their record to 22-7 (9-7 Big 12), matching their best season since the 2018-19 squad's remarkable run to the Sweet 16.
A win in their final home game against BYU could see the Sun Devils tying the 2014-15 team for the most home wins in program history, a testament to their stronghold at home this season.
Key Performers
Heloisa Carrera was the star of the night, scoring a career-high 23 points and nearly achieving her fourth double-double of the season with eight rebounds. McKinna Brackens contributed significantly with 17 points, six rebounds, and a team-high four assists, maintaining her hot streak of averaging 19 points over the last four games.
Marley Washenitz was pivotal in the first half, scoring 12 of her 14 points and matching her season high with eight rebounds. She also tied her season high with four steals, showcasing her defensive prowess.
Off the bench, Jyah LoVett added 12 points, marking her fifth double-digit game this season. Amaya Williams and Deborah Davenport also made valuable contributions, with Williams tying for the team lead in assists and Davenport pulling down six rebounds.
Game Breakdown
The Sun Devils were relentless, scoring over 80 points for the fourth time this season and shooting an impressive 54.8 percent from the field. Their dominance on the boards was evident with a staggering plus-30 rebounding advantage, turning 14 offensive rebounds into 11 second-chance points.
Houston found some success at the foul line, scoring over 40 percent of their points there and hitting 89 percent of their free throws. However, it wasn't enough to counter ASU's early surge.
ASU took control right from the first quarter, shooting 52.3 percent and leading 27-13. Carrera's layup late in the quarter solidified a double-digit lead that the Sun Devils never relinquished. By halftime, they had extended their lead significantly, shooting 59 percent in the second quarter and leading by as many as 27 points in the third.
The Sun Devils' performance was a masterclass in both offense and defense, setting them up for a potentially historic finish to their home schedule.