Women's Basketball Dominates CSU Bakersfield 76-39
12/10/2024 | Women's Basketball
Tucson, Ariz. -- Arizona Women's Basketball delivered a commanding performance, defeating Cal State Bakersfield 76-39 on Tuesday night in McKale Center. The Wildcats excelled on both ends of the court, holding the Roadrunners to just 29.2% shooting while posting their ninth win under head coach Adia Barnes where the opponent scored fewer than 40 points.
Three Wildcats scored in double figures, leading Arizona's offense. Breya Cunningham and Skylar Jones each tallied 13 points, with Cunningham also contributing five rebounds. Paulina Paris added 11 points, and Katarina Knezevic delivered a career-high nine points, knocking down three three-pointers. The Wildcats capitalized on turnovers, scoring 27 points from the Roadrunners' 23 turnovers, and dominated the paint with 36 points inside.
Defensively, Knezevic grabbed six rebounds while adding three steals. Cunningham became the only true sophomore in the Barnes era to open a season with 12 consecutive double-digit scoring games. Arizona controlled the tempo, leading for nearly 38 minutes and amassing their largest lead of 39 points late in the fourth quarter.
How It Happened
Arizona opened the game with an early 18-9 lead after the first quarter, fueled by quick baskets from Cunningham and Jones. The Wildcats found their rhythm in the second quarter, shooting 66.7% from the field. Knezevic hit two of her three triples during this period, and the team forced 10 turnovers in the first half, converting them into 17 points. By halftime, Arizona led 44-25.
The Wildcats' defensive pressure stifled Bakersfield in the third quarter, holding them to just six points on 12.5% shooting. Beh and Knezevic led the charge with multiple steals, while Cunningham added second-chance points to extend the lead. Paris contributed with a fast-break layup and free throw.
In the fourth quarter, Arizona continued their dominance. Jones drained another three-pointer, and Knezevic capped her night with a final steal and assist to Cunningham, pushing the lead to 39 points. The bench contributed valuable minutes, closing out the game with defensive stops and efficient scoring.
Next Up: Arizona returns to action on Monday, Dec. 17, at 6 p.m. MST in McKale Center to face Weber State.
Players Mentioned
Team Stats
CSUB
UA
FG%
.292
.446
3FG%
.286
.290
FT%
.833
.750
RB
30
39
TO
23
10
STL
5
13
Game Leaders
Tuesday, August 18
Tuesday, August 18
Wednesday, February 25
Monday, February 23











