The LSU Lady Tigers trapped their way to victory Monday night in a 88-55 win over Florida Atlantic. Stifling defense fueled an 11-0 run to start the game and the Tigers never looked back, running their record to 3-0 on the young season.
Freshman sensation Seimone Augustus led the Tigers with 24 points, shooting a blistering 10-12 from the field. Senior point guard Temeka Johnson added 14 points and 10 assists to pace the No. 3-ranked Tigers.
Despite controlling the game throughout and leading by as much as 39 points, head coach Sue Gunter said the Tigers still have room for improvement.
“We have got to continue to get better,” Gunter said. “I was disappointed with the number of turnovers, but there were some good performances and I am pleased.”
The Tigers played their third game in four days, but showed no effects as they forced the Lady Owls into 25 turnovers. Eight players logged 14 minutes or more, and LSU’s bench allowed the defensive pressure to continue throughout the game.
“We haven’t trapped in two years,” Gunter said. “We didn’t have the numbers to do that, but this is a very athletic team and we have depth so we will continue to do that.”
Guard Kisha James joined Johnson in the starting lineup for the first time this season and provided a spark in the first half by taking an outlet pass the distance. The play was highlighted by a behind the back dribble that ignited the PMAC crowd. Johnson’s break away put the Tigers up 40-22 with three minutes remaining in the half.
“Tonight we put forty minutes together and we came out with enthusiasm, intensity and we did everything right tonight,” James said.
James finished with nine points and seven assists. Wendlyn Jones came off the bench to pour in 14 points in only 10 minutes of action, but it was the Seimone Augustus show.
Playing in only her third career game, Augustus played with the poise of a senior and contributed three assists, two blocks and two steals.
“Seimone does not make a lot of mistakes,” Gunter said. “Her shot selection is outstanding and she doesn’t try to force things. She is just a special player.”
The Tigers continued their dominance in the second half by extending their lead to 39 on the strength of a 17-4 run. James spelled Johnson at the point and helped the Tigers pull away.
“We wanted to see Kisha and Temeka at the guard slots,” Gunter said. “She looked good tonight and she is a smart intense player.”
Gunter said the team’s rotation will vary according to the opponent.
The Tigers will have tomorrow off before getting back to practice Wednesday in preparation for Friday’s game against Washington State at the Florida International Classic in Miami.