No. 12 Texas A&M rides 28-point third quarter to 80-63 win over Lamar
“Déjà vu all over again.”
No. 12 Texas A&M defeated Lamar in a second contest with the Cardinals in seven days. The Aggies took the Wednesday afternoon game, 80-63, at Reed Arena. Just like the previous matchup, Texas A&M utilized their size advantage and bench to get the victory.
The Aggies made improvements since the first meeting with the Cardinals last Wednesday. The Aggies cut their turnovers in half and got to the free-throw line with ease.
“We emphasized taking care of the ball,” senior guard Kayla Wells said after the game. “We wanted to minimize the opponent's fast-break opportunities, and we did a good job of that today.”
As expected, Lamar came out aggressively on defense, forcing A&M to earn each basket. The Aggies started slow offensively, but a late rally by N’dea Jones and Ciera Johnson helped the Ags lead 19-13 lead after the first quarter.
Unlike last Wednesday, the Aggie guards — especially Aaliyah Wilson — found gaps in Lamar's defense, opening opportunities to slash and drive to the basket. Sophomore guard Jordan Nixon finished the night with 10 assists, providing easy chances for her teammates.
“Jordan Nixon brought a spark tonight for us offensively,” Texas A&M head coach Gary Blair said. “When a point guard finishes with 10 assists, that means you’re running the offense the right way.”
Also, an improved 3-point percentage, led by Wilson and Destiny Pitts, opened up the paint for Johnson and Jones to take advantage of one-on-one opportunities. Wilson finished 2-for-2 from three, and Pitts finished 2-for-4.
The Aggies led 38-31 after the first half but started the second half with a 21-7 run to expand their lead to 59-38 with 3:24 left in the third quarter. During that stretch, Wilson and Jones led the way, scoring easy layups off fantastic passes from Wells and Nixon.
Trying to make a late comeback, Lamar extended their pressure to force turnovers in the fourth quarter. However, the Aggie guards maintained possession and slowed the game down offensively. The Aggies shot many free throws in the final quarter and created turnovers to secure the victory.
“I have to give my players a lot of credit,” Blair said. “We played a lot smarter and were more efficient on both sides tonight.”
Texas A&M will have to get even smarter before Sunday night as the Aggies will face the Texas Longhorns.
“The main priority for Sunday is handling the pressure,” Blair said. “His [Vic Schaefer] team is built on forcing turnovers and making things tough for opposing teams on offense.”
With the schedule change, Texas A&M will face the Longhorns Sunday at 7:30 p.m. instead of the previously scheduled 7:00. The game will air on ESPN.
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