LUBBOCK, Texas — The North Carolina A&T women’s basketball team kicked off their season against Texas Tech, a tough opponent from the Big 12. The Red Raiders, boasting a mix of experience and skill, dominated the game, finishing with a score of 78-40.
D’Mya Tucker, a graduate guard, was the standout for A&T, scoring 13 points. She struggled a bit from the field but made up for it with her solid free-throw shooting.
Texas Tech, on the other hand, showcased teamwork with five players scoring in double digits. Junior Jalynn Bristow led the charge with 19 points and nine rebounds. The Red Raiders’ fast-paced play and full-court pressure crippled A&T’s offense and forced them into 22 turnovers, translating to 21 points for Texas Tech.
The Aggies faced challenges right from the start. Key player Chaniya Clark picked up two quick fouls within the first minute, forcing A&T to adjust their game plan. Despite this setback, Paris Locke managed to score two quick baskets, briefly putting A&T on the board.
The game didn’t get any easier for A&T as Texas Tech quickly surged ahead, establishing a significant lead of 20-5. The Red Raiders’ defensive pressure stifled the Aggies’ ability to move the ball; they finished the game with just two assists, both occurring in the second half.
Clark returned for the second quarter but soon faced another foul. However, she rebounded effectively, snatching 10 boards, nearly achieving a double-double with nine points.
Coach Tarrell Robinson leaned on a young bench filled with underclassmen, who faced their first real challenge in collegiate play. Freshman Anaya Karriem made her debut, contributing two points and playing for 16 minutes.
As they move forward, the Aggies will stay in Texas to face the 17th-ranked Texas Christian University on Thursday at 5 p.m. in Fort Worth.
The early season matchup reflects a broader trend in women’s college basketball: the growing competitiveness of programs across the board. A recent survey from the NCAA showed that more than 30% of Division I women’s basketball teams reported increased funding and resources in the past year. This shift allows schools like Texas Tech to enhance their recruiting and training, raising the level of play overall.
As teams gear up for a challenging season, fans are eager to see how their squads have improved. Social media buzz shows excitement, especially as programs like A&T face formidable opponents like Texas Tech and TCU. The landscape of women’s basketball is shifting, making every game a chance for an unexpected twist.
