The WVU Women’s Basketball team defeated Texas Tech 69-37 at home on Wed. Feb. 26th. Click here for more photos.
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — It was another strong defensive showing for the No. 11 West Virginia women’s basketball team as the Mountaineers won their eighth consecutive game against Texas Tech Wednesday night.
“I thought we played the best defense in the first half than we have in a long time,” said WVU head coach Mike Carey. “I thought (Asya) Bussie was key in that. Overall I was pleased effort and defensive wise.”
Senior center Bussie was active in the paint on both ends of the floor. In the first half, Bussie recorded three blocks and grabbed four boards to go along with her four points.
“I’d like to have 10 players just like Asya Bussie. She is so mature and such a leader. I’ve said since her freshman year that she is one of the best I’ve ever seen,” Carey said.
Shots did not fall early once again for West Virginia, but once sophomore guard Bria Holmes started draining shots, her teammates followed. Holmes led WVU with 14 first half points.
“(Holmes) just came out and was aggressive tonight. I thought she came out and attacked the rim to get to the foul line. She showed some great athletic ability tonight,” Carey said.
The Lady Red Raiders’ inexperience plagued them against the veteran-driven WVU squad. TTU started three freshmen and the Mountaineers only allowed the trio to combine for six points. Freshman Ivonne CookTaylor led her team with four first-half points and finished her night with a team-high 12 points.
Holmes not only provided a spark on offense, but was also solid on the defensive end. Holmes guarded Junior Amber Battle, TTU’s leading scorer, and she was held to a season-low four points.
West Virginia dominated the defense, and unselfish offense once again caused the opposing coach to glow about the Mountaineers. Texas Tech head coach Candi Whittaker said she believes when the Mountaineers can hit shots early, they can beat almost anyone.
“They (West Virginia) have a high-pressure defense. They are strong, big and athletic. They take pride in their defense,” Whittaker said. “I think they are a top-two in our league. They have all the makings of a team that can go on and win it all.”
The Mountaineers will set their sights on Baylor for what will be the biggest Big 12 Conference game of the year…
