WICHITA, Kan. (UCFKnights.com) – The UCF women’s basketball team made its first trip to Wichita a victorious one, topping the Shockers 57-49 in Charles Koch Arena on Wednesday evening.
UCF (21-5, 10-3 The American) locked in defensively down the stretch, outscoring Wichita State (11-14, 4-8 The American) 18-9 over the final 13:45.
The teams traded baskets in the early going and the Shockers held a 14-13 advantage after the first quarter. A long two-point jumper from Kay Kay Wright as the buzzer sounded pulled UCF even, 29-29, at halftime.
The Knights used a pair of free throws from Jamesha Paul to put themselves in front, 41-39, with 3:31 left in the third quarter. Once ahead, the Black and Gold continued to push. UCF led by as many as 13 points on two occasions in the fourth quarter and never let the Shockers get within eight points.
UCF has reached 10 wins in The American for the second straight season and tightened its hold on second place in the league standings with just three games remaining in the regular season.
Kay Kay Wright led the way with her 12th 20-point performance of the season, scoring a game-high 21 to go along with a team-leading six rebounds. Kayla Thigpen added 11 points while pulling down five rebounds. Nyala Shuler tied her season high with four steals. Sydnee McDonald and Jamesha Paul each dished out three assists.
Next up, UCF returns to CFE Arena for the first of its final two home contests. The Knights will host Temple in their annual Play 4 Kay game on Saturday at 2 p.m. Fans are encouraged to wear pink for breast cancer awareness.
TICKETS FOR 2018-19
The UCF women's basketball team is in its third season under head coach Katie Abrahamson-Henderson. Purchase season tickets by clicking here or calling (407) 823-1000.
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