A battle between the Southern Utah University women’s basketball team and Jacksonville State University left Jacksonville State on top 77-58 on Saturday, Nov. 9. With the loss, Southern Utah falls to 0-2 on the season while JSU earns their first win of the season, improving to 1-1.
First quarter
Ava Uhrich got things going for the Thunderbirds, scoring their first five points of the game, yet it was all the Gamecocks after that. Jacksonville State’s Mya Barnes hit two three-pointers and led the team with six points, giving JSU the 19-7 lead after one quarter.
Second quarter
Guards Sierra Chambers and Charli Kay each hit a three to open the quarter, but Clara Planella and Valentina Saric answered right back with threes of their own. Daylani Ballena scored seven of SUU’s next 10 points, but JSU led 34-25 at half.
Third quarter
Both teams shot the ball really well coming out of halftime, shooting over 43% from the field in the third quarter. Planella hit two of the Gamecocks five threes in the third quarter and helped extend the lead to 55-43 heading to the fourth quarter.
Fourth quarter
Ballena scored a quick five points to start the quarter, but it wasn’t enough to keep up with Jacksonville State. The Gamecocks shot 50% from the field, 50% from three and 100% from the free-throw line. Jacksonville State scored 22 points in the fourth to secure the 77-58 win.
Key statistics
— Ballena led all players with 16 points and six assists.
— Jacksonville State forced 18 Southern Utah turnovers.
— SUU went 10-12 from the free-throw line.
— Barnes went a perfect 4/4 from the field.
What’s next?
Southern Utah will travel to Fresno, California to face Fresno State University on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m. This game can be streamed on ESPN+.
Author: Jack Paul
Photographer: SUU Athletics
Editor: Kayd Johanson
