Before Saturday night, Derin Erdogan hadn’t scored since Jan. 30. Hadn’t attempted a shot since then, either.
Yet there Erdogan was, sinking a jumpshot and snaking for a layup early in Arizona’s 72-67 win over UNLV in the first round of the NCAA Tournament in McKale Center. There she was, playing pressing defense at point guard and picking up some valuable minutes on a night when the Wildcats needed something — anything — to provide a spark.
Yet for all her offensive performance, Erdogan’s was responsible for one very big assist. With Pellington struggling on defense and backup Helena Pueyo ineffective — she played four minutes, missing her only shot attempt — UA coach Adia Barnes looked down the bench with 6:13 left before halftime and found Erdogan.
Erdogan hit the deep jumper, riling up the McKale Center crowd. Then she hit a driving layup, keeping the Wildcats close.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Watch Now: Bennedict Mathurin, Pelle Larsson and Christian Koloko describe feelings of playing in first NCAA TournamentAfter the Arizona Wildcats 87-70 win over Wright State in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena in San Diego, UA center Christian Koloko said, 'That's why you come to Arizona. You come to Arizona to play…
Read more »
Watch: Best things Tommy Lloyd said after Arizona's first-round win over Wright StateFind out what Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd said after the Wildcats' first-round win over Wright State in the NCAA Tournament.
Read more »
Greg Hansen: Wildcats' sometimes-sloppy showing still something to savorFor Star subscribers: If you win in the NCAA Tournament, you count your blessings and have sweet dreams.
Read more »
Villanova Students Say Wildcats Going 'All The Way' Following NCAA Tournament Win Over DelawareIt was a full house at the Connely Center. Just about every seat was filled as Villanova students cheered their team on. alecia__reid reports
Read more »
Shaina Pellington shines as Wildcats win NCAA Tournament opener over UNLV; North Carolina nextCate Reese added 15 points for the Wildcats, who will take on North Carolina on Monday for a chance to play in the Sweet 16.
Read more »
Can Villanova sweeten March Madness for fans betting on success?.edbarkowitz looks at the odds of the final eight games of the weekend, with a couple of picks included just for giggles.
Read more »