Texas A&M snaps Rice’s win streak to ring in New Year

Photos © Robert Franklin, all rights reserved.

No. 24 Texas A&M (10-4) rang in the New Year snapping Rice’s six-game winning streak with an 80-57 victory.

The Aggies came out hot on a 27-9 run. Led by Kelsey Bone, who earned her fifth double-double of the season, the Aggies made 11 of their first 12 shots. They scored 49 points in the first 20 minutes for a new season high in first half points. Rice (8-5) had 30 at the break.

“The offense in the first 15 minutes was as good as I’ve seen it all season,” said Texas A&M head coach Gary Blair. “We had all five players contributing. It’s starting to come together hopefully at the right time. I’m pleased with our effort. Bone and (Karla) Gilbert were terrific inside.”

Rice did not roll over in the second half and used a 12-4 run to get within 15 but that was the closest they would get to Texas A&M.

In addition to Bone, three other Aggies were in double figures. Kristi Bellock and Gilbert finished with 12 points each. Adrienne Pratcher scored 11 points and dished out nine assists.

Jessica Kuster led the Owls with 18 points. Megan Palmer scored 15 points and grabbed four rebounds.

The Aggies will return to Reed Arena to open SEC play against Alabama on Thursday. The Owls return to the court on January 10 at East Carolina, to open C-USA play.