ST. PETE, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) – The UCF women’s basketball team extended its win streak with a 53-45 victory over Liberty in the St. Pete Shootout in the McArthur Center on Friday evening.
UCF (10-1) led Liberty (2-9) by four points, 15-11, at the end of the first quarter. The Knights led by as many as nine points in the second quarter and took a 26-22 advantage into halftime.
The Knights used a 12-2 run to take a 13-point advantage, 38-25, with 2:19 left in the third quarter and held a 42-32 edge heading into the fourth quarter. The Flames were able to pull within four, 42-38, in the fourth quarter, but the Black and Gold held off Liberty to earn the win.
UCF extended its win streak to seven games, the longest streak since the 2010-11 campaign.
Two Knights finished in double figures, led by Kay Kay Wright’s 17 points. Kayla Thigpen added 16, finishing one point shy of her season high. Jamesha Paul collected a season-best six rebounds. Brittney Smith tied her career-best with three steals.
Defense Does It
- The Knights forced Liberty into 29 turnovers – the most for a UCF opponent this season.
- In the third quarter, the Black and Gold forced the Flames into seven consecutive possessions that resulted in a turnover.
- UCF held Liberty to 45 points, marking the ninth time that the Knights have held their opponent to 60 points or fewer this season.
Still Streaking
- UCF extended its win streak to seven games – its longest streak since the 2010-11 campaign.
- The Knights improved to 6-1 away from home this season.
- The Black and Gold’s 10-1 record is its best start in the Division I era.
The Knights closes out the St. Pete Shootout on Saturday, facing No. 14/15 Syracuse at 7:30 p.m. in the McArthur Center.
TICKETS FOR 2018-19
The UCF women's basketball team is set for its third season under head coach Katie Abrahamson-Henderson. Purchase season tickets by clicking here or calling (407) 823-1000.
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