Los Angeles, Ca – The Women of Troy protect their home court defeating the visiting Ucla Bruins 71-68. The Trojans just had more hunger and vigor for the ball and getting up and down the court. They just played like a team that need a win more. Coach Cynthia Cooper has to be proud how her team performed.
The Ucla Bruins came into this game ranked #15 in the AP poll and tied for 1st in Pac-12 conference. The Lady Bruins had won the last three in a row against the Women of Troy before this 86th meeting. The Pac-12 conference is currently ranked No. 1 in the RPI with nine members in the Top 100 and seven in Top 50.
Trojan point guard Brianna Barrett did everything for her team but score, 5 rebounds, 7 assist. She run the offense and defense like a true field general before fouling out late in 4th period. They other starters all finished in double figures lead by Temi Fagbenle with 20 points & 15 rebounds.
The Bruins today just could find their stroke shooting 23% if first half from the field, and finished with 31.2% for the game. You could see the frustration on the Bruins face when shot after shot would not fall. It seem to spill over to energy were they just seemed a step slower stuck in 2nd gear most of the night. Guard Jordan Canada came alive in the second half find a little rhythm and finishing with 26 points to lead all scorers, 7 assists & 3 steals.
Both teams have to get better so they can compete the rest of the way in the Pac-12 conference. Cooper had a game plan and tonight the Women of Troy executed it well. As the Bruins came on strong but it was too little to late as final score reflected. These teams may have one last dual in the Pac-12 tournament to settle the draw.
The Ucla Women’s Basketball will travel to the Northwest to face the Washington Huskies on Friday Jan 15th. The USC Women of Troy Basketball team will play Washington State Cougars on Friday Jan. 15th on the PAc-12 network at 8pm.
