On Thursday, Feb. 13, the University of New Mexico women's basketball team took on Boise State University. Both teams came into the game on losing streaks and were hungry for a win. At the end of regulation, the score was 75-75, sending the teams into overtime.
The Lobos secured an 88-83 victory with a game-sealing 3-pointer by Vianè Cumber.
The first quarter started off rocky for the Lobos. They had a hard time with offensive rebounds making it hard to seek the rest of the game. They ended the quarter on a tight score of 14-15 due to a pick-up on offense.
Both teams had the same playing style, which led them to carry out back-to-back baskets throughout the whole game. Cumber said this created intense tension in The Pit.
“They play a lot like us — a lot of transitioning, a lot of quick buckets — but we sent it up on the right side today,” Cumber said.
Cumber’s energy throughout the game was strong and focused. Cumber ended the game scoring 27 points, with 15 of those coming off her five 3-pointers. Overall, the team picked up more on offense but fell off on the defensive side, ending the first half with the Lobos leading 38-33.
The Lobos started off the third quarter strong, picking it up in offensive and defensive intensity and matching the second quarter's energy with few minor changes. The Lobos led 56-55 through three quarters.
The fourth quarter was where the intensity and focus of both teams were showcased. Burnouts were shown from the players with fire and hunger for the win. Ending the quarter 75-75, they headed to overtime, when both teams were at it with multiple offensive rebounds.
With one minute remaining on the clock, the Lobos rushed down the court, leaving Cumber with possession when she shot for the 3 and made a clean shot. With the mindset of clean defense from the Lobos, Boise State was unable to make one last shot, and the Lobos took the victory.
With such a tight game like this happening so close to conference championships, it may leave some wondering where this will leave the team moving forward.
“We played our first six games really well,” Head Coach Mike Bradbury said. “Middle six, not so much. And now we're in the last six, and we gotta get right. And the way to do that is to get our competitive spirit in the right place.”
Esmeralda Lozano is a freelance reporter for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on X @dailylobo
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Elizabeth Bolke is a freelance reporter for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on X @dailylobo
