The San Diego State women’s basketball starting five single-handedly outscored the entire Washington team in Viejas Arena Saturday afternoon with a win of 63-51.
Four of the five SDSU starters scored in double-figures to defeat the Huskies (3-2) improving its overall season record to 4-1, with the only loss being a close one-point defeat to Portland.
In the first-ever game against Washington, junior guard Courtney Clements reached double figure scoring for the fifth time this season, while senior center Kalena Tutt had career-highs in points (13), rebounds (six) and minutes played (38).
Freshman forward Chairese Culberson led the team in scoring (14) and steals (four), while Duke transfer junior guard Chelsea Hopkins scored 12, along with leading the team with seven rebounds, five assists, and a perfect six-for-six free throw percentage.
“Our keys to success are always outrunning them, out-rebounding them and getting to the free throw line more than them,” head coach Beth Burns said following the game.
SDSU out rebounded Washington 38 to 35 and attempted 19 free throws compared to nine by the Huskies.
SDSU led for 37 of the 40 minutes in regulation, at one point leading by as many as 16 points. UW senior center Regina Rogers, with a career-high performance of 26 points along with 10 rebounds, then scored four quick layups to cut the deficit in half.
The Lady Aztecs’ win gives more reason for the team to receive national attention, having recently received votes for the top 25 polls, yet Burns has a different take on it.
“I don’t think it matters. Basketball rankings are fun to talk about and all but what matters is doing well in MW play,” Burns said.
The Lady Aztecs’ 4-1 start is the programs best since 2007; SDSU unfortunately failed to defeat any ranked opponents that season.
The Lady Aztecs, who were picked to finish second in the Mountain West Conference during the preseason, hope to change that when they take on UCLA (3-2) Wednesday in Los Angeles
“We have to disrupt what they do. UCLA has an up-tempo, perimeter-oriented squad which will make for an exciting matchup to watch,” Burns said. “The Bruins program has a big tradition but we will not be easily intimidated; that’s the beauty of having a tea
