Preview: Texas Hosts Northwestern State in Nonconference Finale

AUSTIN, Texas (Interstat) — The top-ranked and undefeated Texas women’s basketball team concludes its nonconference schedule Wednesday night when it hosts Northwestern State at the Frank Erwin Center.

The Longhorns (12-0), riding a dominant start to the season, face a Demons squad (4-4) looking to build momentum before Southland Conference play. Texas has won its games by an average margin of 38.8 points and is coming off an 89-54 rout of then-Baylor on Sunday.

Texas is led by national player of the year candidate Madison Booker, who is averaging 19.2 points, 5.8 assists and 4.9 rebounds per game. The guard is coming off a 27-point, 8-rebound, 5-assist performance against Baylor and has recorded two double-doubles this season.

“Madison sets the tone for us on both ends,“ Texas coach Vic Schaefer said. “Her leadership and consistency have been vital.“

Northwestern State, which has not played since a 69-52 win at Southeastern Louisiana on Dec. 7, will rely on guard Tiara Abron. She scored a season-high 18 points in that victory. Forward Vernell Atamah, who had 22 points against Southeastern Louisiana, provides an interior presence.

The Demons have faced one ranked opponent this season, losing 103-46 at then-Nebraska on Nov. 3. They are 0-2 on the road.

“We have to value every possession and limit our mistakes against a team of this caliber,“ Northwestern State coach Anna Nimz said. “Texas is elite in transition, so our transition defense will be critical.“

Texas has dominated the paint, outrebounding opponents by nearly 20 per game and scoring over half its points inside. Point guard Rori Harmon, who had 12 points and 10 assists against Baylor, facilitates an offense averaging 89.3 points.

Northwestern State averages 66.4 points and allows 66.1 per game.

This is the first meeting between the programs. Following the game, Texas begins a tough stretch of SEC play, while Northwestern State opens its conference slate on Dec. 21.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST.