News Summary
The MTSU women’s basketball team secured a significant victory over WKU with a score of 73-63 at the Murphy Center. This win not only improves their overall record to 19-6 and 11-1 in Conference USA, but it also breaks WKU’s 32-game conference winning streak against MTSU. Stellar performances from Ta’Mia Scott and Anastasiia Boldyreva led the team, showcasing their dominance throughout the game. The Blue Raiders aim to continue their successful season as they prepare for their next matchup against Louisiana Tech.
Victory at the Murphy Center: MTSU Women’s Basketball Shines Against WKU
In a thrilling showdown at the Murphy Center, the Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) women’s basketball team triumphed over Western Kentucky University (WKU) with a score of 73-63. This impressive win not only boosts MTSU’s record to 19-6 overall and 11-1 in Conference USA, but it also serves as a memorable way to avenge their only conference loss this season. Moreover, this victory effectively ended WKU’s 32-game conference winning streak against the Blue Raiders, making it a night to remember for the home team and their fans.
A Game of Ups and Downs
It was a rollercoaster of a game for both teams, with MTSU jumping to an early lead, only to find themselves trailing 20-24 after the first quarter. The WKU team started strong, particularly from beyond the arc, sinking six out of seven three-point attempts. However, the Blue Raiders regrouped and displayed their competitiveness by going on a 9-0 run in the second quarter, managing to take a narrow 36-35 lead at halftime.
Stars of the Night
The excitement continued into the second half as MTSU seemed to dominate the game, thanks to standout performances from key players. Junior Ta’Mia Scott led all scorers with an electrifying 24 points, adding five rebounds, four steals, three assists, and two blocks to her impressive stat line. Not to be outdone, senior Anastasiia Boldyreva secured a double-double, contributing 21 points and an impressive 12 rebounds while also blocking five shots.
Meanwhile, Courtney Blakely, a talented 5-foot-8 guard from Gary, Indiana, found her rhythm on the court, providing significant contributions with 15 points, five assists, and three steals. After spending a couple of years at MTSU, then transferring to Arizona, she has made a strong comeback, recording career highs in multiple categories since stepping back into the point guard role.
Executing the Game Plan
The Blue Raiders’ coaches and players clearly had a solid game plan in place, and it paid off remarkably as they capitalized on foul trouble from WKU, outscoring them 32-18 in points scored in the paint. MTSU effectively exploited defensive lapses from WKU, who managed to secure only three steals and were hindered by a staggering 17 turnovers that led to 17 points for the Blue Raiders.
Home Court Advantage
Playing at home always brings a unique energy, and MTSU showcased their prowess, extending their impressive home winning streak in Conference USA play to 35 games. This record also boasts an astounding 53-2 record over the past three seasons at the Murphy Center, solidifying their status as a dominant force on their home turf.
Looking Ahead
The Blue Raiders are set to continue their quest for victory as they prepare to face Louisiana Tech on February 20, 2025, with the game broadcasted on ESPN+. The excitement is palpable in the air as fans look forward to another unforgettable night of women’s basketball at MTSU!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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WKU Hilltoppers Host Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Showdown
Bowling Green Advances as Lady Toppers Extend Winning Streak
Josie Gilvin Named WKU’s Player of the Week
Additional Resources
- GOBLUERAIDERS: MTSU Women’s Basketball Tops WKU
- Wikipedia: Middle Tennessee State University
- MTSU Sidelines: Weekend Recap
- Google Search: MTSU Women’s Basketball
- GOBLUERAIDERS: Blue Raider Basketball Relishes Sweep
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Basketball
- DNJ: MTSU Women’s Basketball and Courtney Blakely
- Google News: MTSU vs WKU Basketball
