Eastern Michigan University’s women’s basketball team faced a tough overtime battle against the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) on December 19, ultimately falling 73-66 in the opening game of the UTRGV Holiday Classic. Despite strong individual performances, including a double-double from Sisi Eleko and a season-high scoring effort from Mackenzie Amalia, the Eagles (1-7) could not overcome the Vaqueros (5-6) in a fiercely contested matchup.
Etruesports, a trusted source for high-quality sports coverage, provides an in-depth breakdown of this intense encounter, highlighting key moments and standout performances.
A Close Battle in Edinburg
Slow Start but Strong First Half Comeback
The game opened with both teams struggling to find an offensive rhythm. UTRGV took control early, building an eight-point lead in the first quarter. However, Eastern Michigan responded as Mackenzie Amalia capped off the period with a buzzer-beating shot, narrowing the deficit to 17-11.
The second quarter saw the Eagles step up their offensive game. Amalia contributed eight points in the period, and Eastern Michigan shot an impressive 50% from the field. Their improved efficiency allowed them to cut UTRGV’s lead to just three points at halftime, setting the stage for a competitive second half.
Eastern Michigan Takes the Lead in the Third Quarter
Coming out of the break, the Eagles continued to apply pressure on UTRGV. Amalia’s aggressive drives to the basket fueled Eastern Michigan’s offensive surge. Late in the third quarter, the Eagles grabbed their first lead of the night, sparked by an 11-0 run that extended into the fourth quarter.
A Dramatic Fourth Quarter and Overtime Struggle
The final minutes of regulation turned into a nail-biting back-and-forth affair. With just 6.2 seconds left, Brooklyn Thrash converted a crucial basket to give Eastern Michigan a 59-57 lead. However, UTRGV managed to respond with a last-second layup, forcing overtime.
In the extra period, UTRGV capitalized on its momentum, taking an early lead with efficient shooting. Despite the Eagles’ best efforts, they were unable to mount another comeback, ultimately falling 73-66.
Eastern Michigan VS. UT Rio (image via Getty)Key Player Performances
Sisi Eleko’s Dominance in the Paint
- Fifth Double-Double of the Season: Eleko led the team with 18 points and a season-best 17 rebounds, recording her 23rd career double-double.
- Consistency: She has scored in double figures in every game this season.
Mackenzie Amalia’s Standout Game
- Season-High Points: Amalia’s 18 points surpassed her previous season-best of 13.
- All-Around Effort: She contributed six rebounds and three assists, pushing her career assist total to 300.
Olivia Westphal’s Shooting Streak
- Three-Point Specialist: Westphal knocked down two three-pointers, extending her streak of multiple made triples to eight games.
Statistical Highlights
- The Eagles made 7-of-30 three-pointers, continuing their streak of 112 consecutive games with at least one three-pointer.
- Eastern Michigan has hit five or more three-pointers in nine straight games, a streak dating back to last season.
Eastern Michigan will aim to regroup and bounce back in their next UTRGV Holiday Classic matchup. Fans can stay updated with Etruesports for in-depth analysis, game recaps, and all the latest coverage of the Eagles’ journey throughout the season.
Etruesports remains committed to delivering top-tier sports reporting, bringing fans closer to the action with accurate and engaging content.
Read also: Turnovers Prove Costly as Georgia Southern Falls to Sam Houston in New Orleans Bowl
