Women’s basketball falls short against UTEP

Written by Zoe Chin/Sports Director

The FIU women’s basketball team lost on Panther territory against the University of Texas in El Paso (55-60).

In the first quarter, the Panthers started off strong, making 12 points. Three layups contributed by forward Ce’Nara Skanes, center Chelsea Guimaraes, and guard Bre’Osha Scott gave the Panthers six points. Followed by two three-pointer shot by guard Paula Orenes and forward Shante Walker. By the end of the first, the teams were tied 12-12.

But in the second, the Panthers fell short only scoring 11 points while the UTEP Miners made a comeback to lead 23-30. Skanes and Orenes both made two baskets, to keep the Panthers close to the Miners’ lead. Guard Paris Netherly also added her own two-pointer wit a layup.

UTEP extended their lead in the third quarter 38-44. But, UTEP also fouled the Panthers fives time. Guimaraes had three free-throws and successfully made all three. Forward Kylee O’Hara made a three-pointer, followed two successful free-throws. Skanes and Scott both made good layups to keep the four point different with the Miners.

In the fourth, FIU struggled with fouling UTEP and gave the Miners seven free throws. Despite this, the Panthers were able to make a brief comeback with three-pointers from Orenes and Netherly. However, still fell short to the Miners with a 55-60 end.

The women’s basketball team has an overall 4-20 record, a 4-12 home record, and a 0-8 away game record.

The team and coach was not available for interviews after the game.

The Panthers will take on Rice University and the University of North Texas at away games before coming back to home territory to take on Florida Atlantic University on Saturday, Feb. 23.

Featured image by Zoe Chin/PantherNOW