Louisiana Tech at Arkansas
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (Interstat) — A dominant second-quarter surge propelled the Arkansas Razorbacks to a season-opening 93-81 victory over the Louisiana Tech Lady Techsters in a non-conference women’s basketball game Tuesday night at Bud Walton Arena.
The Razorbacks, overcoming a sluggish start, erupted for 31 points in the second period to erase a 12-point deficit and seize control of the contest before an announced crowd of 2,111.
Louisiana Tech opened the game with precision, building a 22-10 lead by the end of the first quarter. The Lady Techsters’ early success was fueled by sharp three-point shooting, including two from Jianna Morris in the opening minutes. Arkansas, meanwhile, struggled to find its offensive rhythm, committing numerous turnovers against an active Louisiana Tech defense.
The momentum shifted dramatically in the second quarter. Arkansas tightened its defense, forcing the Lady Techsters into rushed shots and capitalizing on mistakes. The Razorbacks generated 26 points off 15 Louisiana Tech turnovers for the game, with 10 of their total steals coming in the first half. A 21-2 run by Arkansas transformed the double-digit deficit into a lead they would not relinquish.
Arkansas carried a 41-40 advantage into halftime and continued to apply pressure after the break. The Razorbacks extended their lead by outscoring Louisiana Tech 26-20 in the third quarter, effectively putting the game out of reach.
Taleyah Jones led all players with a double-double, scoring 20 points and grabbing 12 rebounds for Arkansas. She also added six assists. Bonnie Deas was the game’s high scorer with 25 points, while Ashlynn Chlarson contributed 11 points and 11 rebounds. The Razorbacks’ interior presence was a key factor, as they outrebounded Louisiana Tech 17-8 on the offensive glass, leading to 17 second-chance points, and blocked eight shots.
For Louisiana Tech, Jordan Marshall and Jianna Morris each scored 20 points. Paris Bradley added 16 points and Joy Madison-Key finished with 13 points and six rebounds. The Lady Techsters shot 43.1 percent from the field but were hampered by their 15 turnovers and the Razorbacks’ superior efficiency on second-chance opportunities.
Arkansas improved its season record to 1-0, while Louisiana Tech begins its campaign at 0-1. The Razorbacks are scheduled to host Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Friday. Louisiana Tech will travel to face Louisiana-Monroe on Friday.