TEMPE — On a Culture Night at Desert Financial Arena, the Arizona State Sun Devils (17-2, 4-2 Big 12) defeated the Kansas Jayhawks (11-8, 1-6 Big 12) 67-51 behind a strong performance from sophomore forward Heloisa Carrera.
Carrera maneuvered her way into the paint to secure a career-high 22 points and snatch seven total rebounds, the most by any other player in tonight’s contest.
“Honestly, my mind was on defense, making it hard and being able to defend and go on offense was great for my team,” Carrera said.
The Maroon and Gold struggled in the first quarter, with both teams tied at 13. ASU’s first-year head coach, Molly Miller, countered the Jayhawks physical defensive scheme that saw an influx of fouls.
“We had to rely on principles and I think that was really good for us just to get back to principles,” Miller said. “That was the theme.”
The Sun Devils used Carrera down low to help drive them to victory throughout the next three quarters.
Carrera’s versatility, playmaking and shooting, where she went 10-for-12 from the free throw line and went 6-for-7 from the field, helped propel the Sun Devils to victory.
“Her ceiling is so high and what she’s done in her young career in this young season and young program has been phenomenal,” Miller said. “A lot of credit for her and her work ethic.”
Carrera showcased her abilities in her best NCAA performance thus far; another international star, fifth-year guard Last-Tear Poa, had a great day in the assist department, racking up five.
The cultural night event celebrated and recognized ASU’s overseas students and athletes. As for student recognition, over five diverse clubs at ASU were given recognition for their attendance and celebration of their unique cultures.
The Sun Devils’ fans continued to show, with over 3,800 in attendance.
“I think our players and the brand that they play is really exciting to watch,” Miller said.
With the Sun Devils now sitting with a 17-2 record, they will get ready for back-to-back away games against West Virginia on Wednesday, Jan 21 and Cincinnati on Saturday, Jan 24.
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