The UTSA women’s basketball team, heading into the American Athletic Conference tournament, stands at a pivotal point in their season. Their journey to this stage has been filled with notable highs and lows, as evidenced by their 14-13 overall standing and an 8-8 record in conference play. This positions them as underdogs and potential dark horses for the upcoming tournament.
In the tightly contested AAC, the ‘Runners find themselves in the middle of the pack, jostling for position. Leading the pack are Tulsa, UNT and Temple, each with a strong 11-5 conference record. Tulsa and UNT, both surpassing 20 wins, demonstrate the high level of competition UTSA will face. With its respectable 17-11 overall record, Temple is not to be underestimated either. Charlotte, UAB and Rice, each sitting at 9-7 in the conference, alongside USF, ECU, SMU and Memphis with 8-8 records, outline the depth and competitiveness of the conference. Despite being lower in the standings, teams like FAU, Wichita State and Tulane could still pose threats in a tournament setting where anything can happen.
UTSA’s narrative this season has been one of remarkable home strength contrasted with road inconsistencies. At home, they’ve been formidable, winning their last six, demonstrating a cohesive unit that thrives in a familiar setting. However, the road has been less kind, with a 6-9 record that speaks to the challenges faced outside their comfort zone. The neutral site of Fort Worth for the conference tournament thus presents a double-edged sword; the absence of home-court advantage versus the potential for a level playing field.
The team dynamics have been significantly boosted by the return of senior forward Jordyn Jenkins from injury. Her presence on the floor has been transformative, offering scoring depth, rebounding strength and defensive fortitude. Redshirt junior forward Elyssa Coleman’s consistent performance has been another cornerstone for the team, providing stability and reliability in both offensive and defensive plays. And as the team’s floor general, senior guard Kyra White has contributed not only through scoring but also by orchestrating the team’s play and ensuring execution on the court.
The emergence of freshman guard and forward Aysia Proctor and Idara Udo has also been pivotal. Proctor’s scoring and Udo’s defensive and rebounding abilities, combined with their youthful energy, have provided a spark to the team’s synergy. Guard Sidney Love’s scoring capability further enriches the team’s offensive options, making them a multifaceted threat.
Under the seasoned guidance of coach Karen Aston, UTSA has developed a distinctive identity, characterized by effective 3-point shooting and a solid defensive strategy. Aston’s coaching acumen has been instrumental in crafting a team that can not only shoot from the perimeter but also defend aggressively against opponents’ offenses.
Yet, as UTSA steps into the AAC tournament, several concerns loom. Despite Jenkins’ return, depth remains a question mark. Additionally, UTSA’s shooting inconsistency poses a threat to their tournament ambitions. Maintaining shooting efficiency will be paramount in a format where a single cold streak can end a team’s season.
As UTSA prepares for a postseason run, their objectives are clear. Securing at least one win would validate their season’s efforts and reflect their competitive stature within the AAC. However, there lies a broader aspiration; to ignite a spark that could propel them through the tournament. With their combination of defense, 3-point shooting and the leadership of Aston, the Runners are positioned to not only compete but also challenge the conference’s hierarchy.
The UTSA women’s basketball team is on the cusp of a potentially season-defining moment as they enter the AAC tournament. With a blend of experienced leadership, emerging talent and tactical coaching, they stand ready to tackle the challenges of the conference tournament. The Roadrunners have the potential to transcend their regular-season narrative and embark on a postseason journey that could redefine their year.
The American Athletic Conference tournament will commence on Saturday at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth.
