Florida Atlantic University made history a year ago as they won the Atlantic Sun conference championship, and advance to the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament for the first time in school history. History was made again as the Owls defeated the University of New Orleans 68-61 snapping a 12 game losing streak, and earning their 1st Sunbelt Conference Win at home. The Owls were led by Mistoria Brown and Brittney Crenshaw 18 points. Shuteamia Brayboy contributed 11 points, 6 assists, and 4 steals. Coming of the bench for the Owls was freshman Carla Stubbs as she posted her first career double-double with 10 points, and 10 rebounds.
The Lady Privateers were led by Talisha Young’s 18 points, and Le’Della English 13 points. English scored 41 points against Florida Atlantic at New Orleans on January 3 in double overtime. In the first half the Lady Privateers started strong pushing the ball in full court transition, and shooting 45 percent from the court. Florida Atlantic shot 24 percent, but managed to stay with the Lady Privateers converting 15-18 free throws for 88 percent, and trailed by three points 36-33 at the half.
“We needed to play with a little more emotion, and be more energetic” FAU women’s head coach Chancellor Dugan said. The Owls did just that in the 2nd half being more aggressive on the defensive end recording 19 points off of New Orleans 9 turnovers. Florida Atlantic outscored the Lady Privateers 35-25, and made 50 percent of their free throws. “We came out with more intensity on both ends” guard Cristal Randolph said.
New Orleans shot the ball poorly at 29 percent as FAU played well offensively, and defensively to earn their 1st Sunbelt Conference win in front of a home crowd.
“This is a good win, and it’s a great feeling” Randolph said. Winning today FAU fans were cheering, and applauding in the closing seconds of the game. “I’m so excited, and so happy for the team” FAU women’s head coach Chancellor Dugan said.
Florida Atlantic will try to carry momentum from their 1st Sunbelt conference win, and build a winning streak at home this Thursday against South Alabama on senior night at 7p.m.
