Defensive dominance sets the stage for the Tigers women’s basketball as they advance to 7-3 following a win over Jacksonville State
Missouri women’s basketball picked up another blowout win, defeating Jacksonville State on Sunday, Dec. 1 75-49. The victory moves the Tigers to 7-3 on the season, the same record through the first ten games last season.
The Tigers’ relentless press defense locked down the Gamecocks, forcing 20 turnovers. Many of those Gamecock turnovers came on errant passes in the backcourt and inbounding during the full-court press.
“I think the full court pressure, being able to pick up in the full court and really applying pressure to their pushers was key for us tonight.” head coach Robin Pingeton said.
Guards Ashton Judd and Averi Kroenke each had three steals in the contest, with Judd also adding two blocks.
Another Tiger who recorded two blocks was point guard Tilda Sjökvist as shel made her presence known on the defensive side of the ball. Sjökvist also notched six assists on the day, with her playmaking skills being noticed by her teammates.
“I love playing with her, because being able to get out and run, you know, if I’m going to get to my spot, I can count on her to push the ball off the court, and I know she’s going to find me regardless,” Judd said.
Forward Hannah Linthacum was on the receiving end after a season-high nine points. Linthacum had a strong offensive game of her own, finishing on an efficient 4-of-6 shooting.
“Hannah’s got a really high ceiling, really high ceiling,” Pingeton said. She’s got good athleticism. She can finish her on the rim. You know, she rebounds well for her stature, she’s a physical player.”
While Sjökvist and Linthacum provided a nice spark off the bench, the usual Tiger contributors added their typical offensive outpourings. Laniah Randle and Grace Slaughter each had 15 points to tie each other for a team-high. Randle also snatched 10 rebounds for her third double-double of the season. Abbey Shreacke and Judd followed them with 12 points each, as those four combined for 54 of the 79 Tiger points.
The Tigers’ next matchup was against Southern Methodist University on Thursday, Dec. 5.
Edited by Dylan Heinrich | dheinrich@themaneater.com
Copy edited by Natalie Kientzy | nkientzy@themaneater.com
Edited by Emily Skidmore | eskidmore@themaneater.com