The Gophers women's baskeball team heads into Sunday's final game of the Subway Classic against Auburn (9-3) fresh off its first home loss of the season — a 58-55 defeat at the hands of a talented, athletic UCLA squad.
The Gophers (9-3) were 6-0 at the Barn before Friday's loss, but the same issues they've had at times (and gotten away with) this season were what doomed them against the Bruins.
"We need a third scorer on this team," coach Pam Borton said afterward, challenging her players to "step up" Sunday.
Star guard Rachel Banham scored 16 of the Gophers' first 23 points — 24 overall — in the loss, and 6-5 center Amanda Zahui B. had 16 points as part of her sixth double-double of the season.
Only three other players attempted shots, though, and no one else had more than six points. For the Gophers to close their home tournament with a victory, Borton said, that needs to change.
And Minnesota won't be looking at an easy opponent, either.
Auburn (9-3) defeated UCLA 66-60 on Saturday and features four players who average double digits in scoring.
BRYCE EVANS
