TAMPA—The USF Women’s Basketball team clinched its first conference win of the season on Tuesday night by defeating the Cincinnati Bearcats 77-44, improving to 1-2 in Big East play.
The Smith twins, Andrea and Andrell, once again led the way for USF. They combined for 33 points and nine rebounds. USF only led by four with 3:15 remaining in the first half, but a 13-1 run capped off by a buzzer beating three-pointer by Andrell Smith gave the Bulls a 34-19 lead heading into the break.
Freshman Alisia Jenkins, who turned in a game-high 12 rebounds, really enjoys playing with the sisters. “They’re great role models. I really look up to them…they teach me a lot in practice everyday,” Jenkins said.
In the second half it was all USF, and it was all about the defense. The Bulls’ full court press forced 15 turnovers in the frame which in turn enabled the offense to take over from there.
“It’s good to get a win. Now we have to go on the road and play a good Villanova team,” Coach Jose Fernandez said. “When you win a game and now you feel a little better about yourself, you have a little swagger.”
The Bulls will take their 12-4 record into Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Saturday, January 19th where they’ll take on the Villanova Wildcats. Tipoff is set for 2:00 PM.