For a team struggling to make shots so far this season, this was a step forward.
The Gophers shot a season-best 46% from the field in routing American University 73-56 on Wednesday night in nonconference women's basketball at Williams Arena before an announced crowd of 2,643. It was the third consecutive victory for Minnesota (3-1), which had been relying on its defense to beat opponents while shooting only 34.2%.
Kadi Sissoko, a 6-2 junior forward, led the Gophers with a season-high 17 points, five rebounds and three steals. She was one reason her team's shooting percentage was better, making six of 12 shots, including one three, and going 4-for-6 on free throws. Teammate Jasmine Powell added 12 points and eight assists.
"Four games in eight days, with a West Coast trip in there," Gophers coach Lindsay Whalen said. "… Really proud of the team and team and way we responded. American is a tough team. They run some really good stuff."
The visiting Eagles (2-2) led 8-4 before the Gophers went on a 13-0 run and never trailed again.
The Gophers play No. 2-ranked UConn on Saturday in the first game of a tournament in the Bahamas.
By the end of the opening quarter, the Gophers led 21-10. American got within 27-24 with 4:32 left in the second before Deja Winters and Alexia Smith got back-to-back baskets for Minnesota to make it 31-24. The lead was still seven, 35-28, at halftime. It grew to as many as 21 points late.
