Dons Knock Off Unbeaten Tulsa with Great Comeback

Wednesday, December 22

Tulsa, Okla.

10:00 a.m.

University of San Francisco

6-6,0-0WCC

Tulsa

10-1,0-0AAC

San Francisco

Tulsa

Photo by: Christina Leung

12/22/2021 10:53:00 AM | Women's Basketball

Box Score

TULSA, Okla. -- In a game that featured multiple runs from both squads, the USF Dons women's basketball team (6-6) went on the road and gutted out an impressive 78-76 victory over the previously undefeated Tulsa Golden Hurricane (10-1) to close out non-conference play at the Reynolds Center.

USF received a tremendous contribution up-and-down the roster, as Claudia Langarita set a new career-high with 17 points, while Kia Vaalavirta contributed 11 crucial points with eight being scored during the fourth quarter.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

Both teams came out of the gate hot as the first quarter ended in a 19-all tie with both teams shooting over the 50% mark from the field.
USF flexed their offensive muscles to start the second quarter, as they raced out with an 11-0 run. Tulsa responded with one of their own to even the score at 39 at halftime.
Tulsa was able to build their lead throughout the third and most of the fourth quarter, leading by as many as 12 points in the third quarter.
Down ten with not much game left, the Dons dug in and were able to retake the lead due to clutch shooting and stingy defense. USF didn't allow a field goal throughout the final 4:37 of play to help them secure the 78-76 victory on the road.

NOTABLE PERFORMANCES:

Langarita had a phenomenal two-game road trip as she set new career highs in points against both CU and Tulsa. She poured in 17 points on an efficient 4-of-7 shooting, making both three pointers she attempted and knocking down seven of eight free throws.
Vaalavirta was aggressive throughout the fourth quarter when her team needed a bucket most. Kia had a total of 11 points, two rebounds and finished +7 during her time on the floor as she made numerous effort plays on defense as well.
Amalie Langer had a red-hot start to the afternoon scoring eight of her 15 points in the first quarter. Langer finished with 15 on 5-for-7 from the field to go along with a rebound and a steal.
Ioanna Krimili didn't have her typical scoring night, but did a tremendous job setting up her teammates for good looks as she had seven points, seven rebounds and six assists against the Golden Hurricane.
Kennedy Dickie entered the game late and was able to force a game-sealing steal that allowed the Dons to put the game away late. Dickie finished with seven points and six rebounds.

CATCHING UP WITH COACH GOODENBOUR:
"So proud of this team's fight and resilience. We got down and found a way to keep persevering through difficult circumstances. Claudia played one of her best games of the season while Kia and Kennedy came in off the bench to provide great minutes and big baskets for us down the stretch. This is a great win versus an undefeated team on their home court and a fantastic way to head into Christmas break."

UP NEXT:
The Dons will now turn their attention to WCC play as conference action will open on Thursday Dec. 30 in Spokane against the Gonzaga Bulldogs (9-3). The Zags won both matchups between the two schools during the 2020-21 season.

TICKETS AND MERCHANDISE:
Single-game tickets for non-conference basketball games are currently on sale at www.usfdons.com/tickets. Tickets for West Coast Conference opponents are now also on sale and can be purchased here.

Want to dress like the Dons? Rep USF today by visiting the all-new USF Dons online store at www.usfdons.com/shop.

FOLLOW US:
For updates and more information on the USF women's basketball program, follow the Dons @USFDonsWBB on Twitter, @USFDonsWBB on Instagram and @USFDonsWBB on Facebook.