UTRGV Women'Basketball at press conference. Picture from UTRGV Athletics.
The Vaqueros made history in their season opener at the UTRGV Fieldhouse, earning a 67-point victory over Arlington Baptist. UTRGV finished the night shooting 64.4% from the field, making 38 of 59 attempts, and recorded 29 assists as five players finished in double figures.
Jesslynn Jalomo and Kamryn McLaurin led the Vaqueros with 21 points each. Rylie Whitehair followed with 19 points, shooting a perfect 8-for-8 from the field. Gianna Angiolet and Lina Fimbo also contributed 11 points apiece.
The team’s offensive performance reflected the ball movement and teamwork the coaching staff had been emphasizing.
Head coach Lane Lord praised the way the team shared the basketball and involved everyone offensively throughout the game.
“I was real happy with our offense, 5 players and double figures, and we really shared the basketball. We had 29 assists definitely. Did a great job sharing the ball, making the extra pass. It was fun to have everybody on the team scored, everybody contributed.” lord said
Despite the dominant victory, UTRGV’s coaching staff recognized areas the team could continue improving. The Vaqueros allowed 17 points in the third quarter, their highest-scoring quarter allowed during the game.
“We got a little bit lazy,” lord said
One of the standout performances came from Rylie Whitehair, who finished with 19 points after returning from a summer injury. Her performance marked an important moment as she continued getting back into game shape.
“Um, I know, just coming off an injury, you know, this this summer, I wasn’t really practicing. This is finally like my month back.” Whitehair said.
Whitehair’s 8-for-8 shooting performance helped UTRGV maintain its offensive momentum and contribute to the team’s record-breaking night.
The Vaqueros also showed their ability to share responsibilities offensively, with five players reaching double figures and the team finishing with 29 assists. Their 114 points marked the highest-scoring performance in program history, while their 64.4% shooting percentage established another program record.
UTRGV now turns its attention to a challenging road stretch. The Vaqueros are scheduled to face South Dakota on Nov.6 at 11 a.m., followed by Kansas State on Nov.8 at noon.
The season opener gave UTRGV a record-setting start, but the team will look to carry that offensive rhythm and teamwork into its upcoming matchups.
This is Sebastian Espino for Vaquero Radio
