Box Score CANYON — The 22nd-ranked Wayland Baptist Flying Queens came within five points of victory in an exhibition game against NCAA Division II's third-ranked West Texas A&M Lady Buffs Saturday night, 61-56.
Flying Queens Coach
Alesha Robertson-Ellis was worried after the Lady Buffs got out to a 20-9 lead at the end of the first quarter that the game, which does count on either team's record, might get away from the Queens. Fortunately, her team proved her wrong, especially the seniors.
"The seniors stepped up and played well," Robertson-Ellis said of
Jade Jones, Shawna and
Shayla Monreal. "I'm proud of them for attacking the challenge."
After their nine-point first quarter, the Queens outscored the Lady Buffs in the second period, 14-10, to draw a 23-30 deficit at the half.
Wayland was outscored in the third, 15-12, but in the fourth the Flying Queens made their big push. It wasn't quite enough despite scoring 21 points and shooting 61 percent from the field over the final 10 minutes.
Interestingly, the Queens didn't make a 3-pointer in the game, going 0-for-8, and they missed seven free throws (10-for-17).
"We didn't' do the small things," Robertson-Ellis said.
Jones finished with game-high 19 points and nine boards along with five steals. The Monreal sisters ended with 11 points each.
"Jade played every minute except two," Robertson-Ellis said. "The twins (Shawna and Shayla) didn't have a stellar night, but still produced. They are very competitive and it shows."
With starting center
Nina Sato in foul trouble, Robertson-Ellis also received big minutes from her post reserves, Deborah Van-Dijk and
Kelea Pool.
"Our two freshman post played very strong," the coach said. "Van Dijk was very strong with the ball, and Pool made good passes and was a major presence in the paint."
WT (2-1) was slowed by 21 turnovers as Wayland came up with 13 steals.
The Flying Queens (2-0) next play at 6 p.m. Friday against Eastern New Mexico at Hutcherson Center.
