Chico State’s women’s basketball team opened with a dominant 88-54 victory in conference play in its FANatics home game on Thursday against UC Merced.
Senior forward Meadow Aragon put the Wildcats on the board with a jumper in the first minute. The ‘Cats set the tone early with nine defensive rebounds and a 12-1 lead on the Bobcats.
With four assists by guards Sydney Peterson, Jianna Creswell, Kamil Reid and Nseije Ortiz, the ‘Cats took a 22-13 lead over the Bobcats at the end of the first quarter.
In the second quarter, the Bobcats attempted to close in on the gap, but the ‘Cats continued to lead, scoring 23 points in the paint, while the Bobcats made 11. Aragon, forward Madison Parry, Creswell and Reid each sank free throws, combining for 11 points.
The ‘Cats continued to build momentum in the third quarter. They extended their lead to 24, reaching 59 points, supported by five assists, 42 points in the paint, and 11 second-chance points.
“Our coach always emphasises teamwork, everyone scored today and I think that was the most important thing that we did today. I’m just really confident that my team puts trust in me and that they work with me every single day at practice and I’m really happy for that,” said Reid.
Although the Bobcats trailed by 35, they managed four more offensive rebounds compared to the ‘Cats three. Still, the ‘Cats refused to give the Bobcats opportunities and made 10 defensive rebounds.
In the fourth quarter, the Bobcats added 11 points while the ‘Cats increased their lead with 22 points.
Both teams made two three-pointers and 71 ball possessions. The Bobcats tallied 29 bench points and three steals from the ‘Cats.
The ‘Cats closed out the game with a strong finish, securing a 34-point victory.
With 55 seconds remaining, forward Juliette James scored the ‘Cats final layup. They finished with 18 points off turnovers and nine field goals in the fourth quarter.
Aragon powered the offense with 21 points, 15 rebounds and 2 blocks. Madison Parry added 17 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Jiana Creswell contributed with 9 points and 3 rebounds, along with Kamil Reid, who made 9 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists.
“We’re a younger team, I’m really proud of how hard we work and how we come out and I think that we really trust each other and I’m really excited for the rest of the season. We’re super fortunate that Chico has such a great community and I’m just happy that everyone came out to support,” said Reid.
Now with an overall 4-2 record, the ‘Cats will look to continue their strong play in the next home game Saturday against Stanislaus State at 1 p.m.
For information about all Chico State athletics or to keep up with the game live, visit the Wildcat home page, or watch through FloSports.
Malisse Busby can be reached at [email protected]. or [email protected].
