By Jeff Bugher
LARAMIE, Wyo. (Feb. 1, 2024) - After two consecutive road matchups, the Wyoming Cowgirl basketball team (12-8) returns to the familiar confines of home court at the Dome of Doom. Set to face off against Nevada at 2 p.m. this Saturday, the game holds special significance as part of the annual Bounce Cancer event.
The game will be aired live on the Mountain West Network and broadcasted across the Cowgirl Radio Network, with David Settle providing commentary. Ahead of tip-off, fans are invited to participate in the Bounce Cancer Walk, commencing at 11:30 a.m. on the concourse. Registration for the walk is available both on-site and online at gowyo.com/tickets. Notably, the Cowgirls will sport specially designed jerseys for the occasion, with all proceeds directed towards supporting the Ivinson Cancer Center.
Preview: Wyoming Cowgirls
With a season record of 12-8, including a 7-2 standing in the Mountain West (MW) conference, the Cowgirls aim to rebound from their recent setback, a 58-51 loss to UNLV. Despite the defeat, standout performances from Emily Mellema and Malene Pedersen, each contributing 12 points, underscored the team's resilience. McKinley Dickerson and Marta Savic added valuable points off the bench, with Allyson Fertig leading the rebounding efforts with eight boards.
Notably, the Cowgirls boast a robust scoring margin of plus-7.6 in MW action, propelled by a balanced offensive attack. Fertig leads the charge with 13.8 points and 8.6 rebounds per game, showcasing impressive efficiency with a 67.5% shooting accuracy. Mellema follows closely, averaging 11.1 points alongside notable contributions in assists and steals. Tess Barnes and Pedersen round out the quartet of Cowgirls averaging double figures in scoring during MW play.
Despite their recent defeat, the Cowgirls maintain great shooting percentages, with nearly 49% accuracy from the field and a solid defense holding opponents to under 39%. Their defensive powers extends beyond the arc, where opponents struggle at a mere 28.3% conversion rate, ranking Wyoming atop the conference. Additionally, the team boasts a significant advantage in assists, highlighting their cohesive play on both ends of the court.
Opponent Analysis: Nevada Wolf Pack (11-11)
Facing off against the Cowgirls, the Nevada Wolf Pack arrives with a competitive roster led by Audrey Roden, averaging 12 points and showcasing playmaking ability with 2.4 assists per game. Roden's defensive contributions, leading in steals, add another dimension to Nevada's game plan. Claire Jacobs and Izzy Sullivan provide additional scoring threats, while Lexie Givens anchors the team in rebounding and defensive presence with 26 blocks and 35 steals on the season.
Nevada's statistical profile reflects a balanced approach, averaging 64.6 points per game while conceding 64 defensively. Shooting efficiency hovers around 38%, with a 31.5% success rate from beyond the arc. However, turnovers remain an area of concern, with a 0.83 assist-to-turnover ratio. Despite a commendable performance at home, the Wolf Pack seeks to improve their road record, currently standing at 3-4.
Series History and Outlook
Historically, the Cowgirls hold a favorable record against the Wolf Pack, showcasing a 23-9 all-time series lead. Wyoming has secured victories in the last three encounters, including matchups from the previous season. Impressively, the Cowgirls maintain a dominant home record against Nevada, with a 13-1 record, solidifying their stronghold on home court advantage.
Saturday's showdown promises high-stakes competition and a platform to support a noble cause. With the backdrop of the Bounce Cancer event, the game unites players and fans in a shared commitment to raising awareness and supporting those affected by cancer.
*Stats and info from a UW Press Release were used to compose this article.
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