Lady Lions Complete Comeback in Season Opener

Story posted November 8, 2018 in CommRadio, Sports by David Green

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa - The Penn State Women’s Basketball team defeated the Providence Friars in dramatic fashion 74-72 after coming back from a 15 point deficit to open up the 2018-19 season at the Bryce Jordan Center Thursday night.

Senior guard Amari Carter led the way for the Nittany Lions with 15 points to go along with five rebounds as well as three crucial steals in 32 minutes of play. Carter was one of five Penn State players who scored in double figures. Sam Breen contributed two clutch free throws with under a second left in regulation to go up two points and ultimately win the game.

Providence had a lead of 15 points with just 3:48 remaining in the third quarter when Penn State made some adjustments both offensively and defensively to sway the momentum of the game in its favor. Coquese Washington, head coach of the Nittany Lions, was happy with how the team approached the fourth quarter.

“I was really pleased with the effort we had, in particular, the fourth quarter defensively,” Washington said during the post-game press conference. We got some big stops when we needed them.”

Senior guard for Providence, Jovana Nogic had an impressive outing, recording a game-high 18 points with four three-pointers, three of which came in the first half. Nogic also did her part on defense, recording three steals. Providence head coach Jim Crowley had positive things to say about her production.

“She spreads the floor so well and she has gotten better at hunting for her shot,” Crowley said. “She shoots the ball really well and the more she stays with that, the better we are."

Penn State struggled with protecting the basketball this game despite coming away with the win. They gave up 14 turnovers in the first half alone and 22 for the game.

Despite committing so many turnovers compared to Providence, Penn State enjoyed an 18 rebound advantage as well as outscoring the Friars in the fourth quarter by 14 points.

Penn State’s leading scorer from last season, senior guard Teniya Page did not have the best shooting night but was still able to make an impact on the outcome of the game. Page finished with 13 points but also recorded three assists and a steal.

“I think she goes a good job of drawing attention,” Washington said. “She and I have talked all preseason. The more we can have a balanced attack, the better for her.”

Penn State will enjoy a 1-0 record as the team heads into the weekend. The Nittany Lions will be seeking their second win of the season on Sunday, November 11 at 2 p.m. in the Bryce Jordan Center against the California Golden Bears. California is also 1-0 after defeating Houston on Tuesday night 81-80 in the Haas Pavilion in Berkeley.

 

 

David Green is a junior majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email davidrgreen95@gmail.com.