The Bizarre Triple-Overtime Win for USF Women’s Basketball
Even as USF women’s coach Jose Fernandez hobbled on a knee that he mangled while playing dodgeball with his players, his team didn’t gain its own footing until the 11th hour of a bizarre, breathtaking Wednesday night.
A Thrilling Comeback Victory
Stymied by a mostly miserable first-half shooting effort, the Bulls (17-8, 10-2 American Athletic Conference) rallied for an 82-77 triple-overtime win against Rice before a Yuengling Center audience of 2,225. The triumph — USF’s first triple-OT game since 1984 — extended the Bulls’ win streak to six games.
Closing the Gap with Clutch Shots
Graduate Sammie Puisis forced overtime with a 3-pointer from the right baseline at the regulation buzzer, then hit the go-ahead basket — also a 3-pointer — from the top of the key with 25 seconds to play in the final session.
Overcoming Early Shooting Woes
Preceding the clutch moments were clangs, lots of them. The Bulls couldn’t seem to buy a bucket initially, watching long-range attempts, mid-range jumpers, driving layups, and even simple put-backs go awry.
Halftime Stats and Adjustments
By halftime, the Bulls were only 10-of-32 (31.3%) from the floor and 2-of-11 from 3-point range. Rice, by contrast, shot nearly 50% in the first 20 minutes.
Conclusion
In a game filled with twists and turns, USF women’s basketball pulled off an incredible triple-overtime victory that showcased their resilience and determination. This win extends their winning streak and highlights their ability to overcome adversity.
FAQs
Q: Who was the standout player in the game?
A: Sammie Puisis led USF with 17 points and hit crucial shots to force overtime and secure the win.
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