The ACC Women’s Basketball action on January 16 featured a mix of dominant performances, close contests, and individual standout efforts across multiple games. Here are the key highlights and analysis:
Notable Team Performances:
1. Notre Dame (#3) vs. Georgia Tech (#17): Notre Dame’s ability to pull away in the third quarter was crucial, with Sonia Citron and Maddy Westbeld stepping up in the absence of key players. Their depth and ability to adjust mid-game remain strengths.
2. Florida State vs. Clemson: Florida State’s second-half surge, led by Ta’Niya Latson and O’Mariah Gordon, showcased their resilience. Latson’s consistent scoring ability and playmaking were pivotal in breaking their losing streak.
3. Stanford vs. Wake Forest: Stanford managed to secure their first ACC road win despite a late rally by Wake Forest. The combined scoring power of Tess Heal and Nunu Agara underscores their offensive prowess, while Wake Forest’s Elise Williams kept the game competitive with her shooting.
4. Virginia vs. Virginia Tech: Virginia’s dominance in the third quarter, propelled by Latasha Lattimore, was key. Lattimore’s double-double performance highlights her impact on both ends of the floor.
5. NC State (#21) vs. Pitt: Aziaha James and Madison Hayes led NC State with balanced scoring and rebounding, solidifying their strong conference standing. Pitt’s Khadija Faye had a standout performance despite the loss, demonstrating her scoring capability.
6. Boston College vs. Miami: Kaylah Ivey’s clutch 3-pointer and record-setting assists were instrumental for Boston College. T’yana Todd’s shooting efficiency from beyond the arc played a crucial role in their victory.
7. Louisville vs. Syracuse: Louisville’s balanced attack and double-doubles from Nyla Harris and Ja’Leah Williams indicate their consistency and depth. Tajianna Roberts’ leadership in scoring and Jayda Curry’s outside shooting were key contributors.
8. Duke (#16) vs. California (#18): Duke’s defensive pressure, resulting in 31 turnovers, was the defining factor in their dominant win. Freshman Toby Fournier’s double-double performance highlighted Duke’s efficient offensive execution.
9. North Carolina (#14) vs. SMU: North Carolina’s Lexi Donarski and Alyssa Ustby led a dominant defensive and rebounding effort. Ustby’s 18 rebounds were a standout statistic, demonstrating her control of the boards.
Individual Standouts:
Sonia Citron (Notre Dame): Scored 21 points, leading her team to another ranked victory.
Ta’Niya Latson (Florida State): Recorded a double-double with 20 points and 10 assists, pivotal in their comeback win.
Tess Heal (Stanford): Scored 24 points, hitting six 3-pointers, key to their road win.
Latasha Lattimore (Virginia): Her season-high 24 points and 15 rebounds drove Virginia’s victory.
Aziaha James (NC State): Led all scorers with 22 points, pushing NC State to another conference win.
Kaylah Ivey (Boston College): With a career-high 16 assists, she directed a critical win for Boston College.
Toby Fournier (Duke): Freshman standout with a 23-point, 11-rebound double-double.
Alyssa Ustby (North Carolina): Dominated the boards with 18 rebounds, adding to her season’s double-double tally.
Analysis:
This round of ACC games highlighted the importance of depth, resilience, and standout individual performances. Teams like Notre Dame, Florida State, and Duke showcased their ability to adjust and dominate crucial moments. The balance of offensive and defensive execution, combined with standout individual efforts, will continue to be a key factor as the season progresses.
Each game demonstrated varying strengths, from Notre Dame’s strategic third-quarter push to Duke’s stifling defense. These performances underline the competitiveness and talent across the ACC Women’s Basketball landscape.
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