Clark Carries Redhawks Over Vaqueros

EDINBURG, Tex. - Seattle U women's basketball concluded the opening weekend of Western Athletic Conference (WAC) play on Saturday, claiming its first victory of the season over UTRGV, 59-53. Sophomore Taliyah Clark set a new career-high in points with 20. The WAC matchup took place at the UTRGV Fieldhouse in Edinburg, Texas. 

UTRGV came out more aggressive, taking as large as a nine point lead in the first quarter. The Redhawks were dominate in the second quarter, outscoring the Vaqueros 16-8, with a Noemie Bariteau three-pointer putting them ahead by one going into halftime.

After a low scoring third quarter, the Redhawks would find themselves trailing by two entering the fourth. The final quarter saw SU outscore score the opponent, 22-14, shooting 8-10 from the field.

"What a tremendous team effort today," said Head Coach Suzy Barcomb. "Big baskets late in the game and defending without fouling allowed us to pull out the victory."

The Redhawks finished the night with a season-high in shooting percentage (48.9%) and tied their season-high in free throws made (eight). They also did a great job on the defensive end, recording five steals and five blocks as well as holding the Vaqueros to 28% from the field. 

Taliyah Clark also recorded career-best performance in field goals made (seven) and blocks (two).

"Taliyah had her best game of the season," said Barcomb. "We really needed a performance like that out of her."

Freshman Mya Moore was also in double figures, finishing with 12 points to go along with five rebounds, a block and a steal. Junior Peyton Howard chipped in nine points and grabbed six boards, helping SU secure the victory. UTRGV's Mele Kailahi logged a game-high 10 rebounds and was the only Vaquero to score double digits.

Seattle U begins its WAC home schedule on Thursday, Jan. 5, with California Baptist at 6 p.m. in the Redhawk Center

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