What's Happening?
The Arizona State Sun Devils women's basketball team has achieved a remarkable start to their season under the leadership of first-year head coach Molly Miller. The team has been recognized by the U.S.
Basketball Writers Association as the team of the week, following their 13-0 record in non-conference play. This achievement marks the best start in the program's history, surpassing the previous record of 9-0 set by the 2008-09 squad. Key players contributing to this success include Penn State transfer Gabby Elliott and UNLV transfer McKinna Brackens, who have taken on significant scoring responsibilities. Elliott notably scored 27 points against her former team and 30 points in a game against Gonzaga. The team has also benefited from strong performances by role players such as Heloisa Carrera, Last-Tear Poa, Marley Washenitz, Jyah LoVett, and Amaya Williams.
Why It's Important?
This undefeated start is significant as it highlights a dramatic turnaround for the Arizona State women's basketball program, which had been stagnant in recent years. Under the previous head coach, Natasha Adair, the team won only 29 games over three seasons. Molly Miller's leadership has revitalized the team, positioning them as a competitive force in the Big 12 conference. The team's success not only boosts morale but also enhances the program's reputation, potentially attracting more talent and support. This development is crucial for the university's athletic department and could have positive implications for the school's overall sports culture.
What's Next?
As the team prepares to enter Big 12 conference play, they face the challenge of maintaining their momentum against strong competitors like Iowa State, TCU, and Baylor. These teams are considered top contenders in the conference, and Arizona State will need to continue their hard-nosed defensive play and effective scoring to secure a top position. The team's performance in the upcoming games will be critical in determining their standing and potential for postseason success. Continued success could further solidify Coach Miller's impact and the program's upward trajectory.
