News release from Texas A&M Athletics:
The Texas A&M women’s basketball team defeated Louisiana 62-51 to stay undefeated Thursday night inside Reed Arena behind Emerald Parker and Kailyn Gilbert who combined for 39 points.
Parker led the way for the Maroon & White, scoring team-high 20 points, adding seven rebounds and two blocks.
Gilbert recorded her second straight double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds, marking the first time she has done so in her career. Gilbert also dished out seven assists
The Aggies came out firing in the first period, outscoring the Ragin’ Cajuns 13-4 through the first 6:21 of the contest. Texas A&M went on an 11-0 run during that stretch and forced four turnovers. Parker scored six points, shooting 3-of-5. Louisiana responded by nailing two 3-pointers, closing the gap to three by the end of the period, 13-10.
Parker continued her dominant play through the second, scoring eight points in the frame. Gilbert played all 10 minutes of the period, adding six points and three rebounds. The Texas A&M defense made its presence known as three Aggies recorded a block and forced another four Ragin’ Cajun turnovers. Texas A&M limited Louisiana to 3-of-15 shooting in the last 5:34 to take a 31-22 advantage into the locker room. Parker ended the half with a team-high 14 points.
Louisiana fired back to start the second half, going on an 11-3 run and taking the lead at the 6:06 mark of the third, 34-33. Chaney Spencer responded by knocking down the first Aggie 3-pointer of the night to regain the lead, 36-34. Spencer nailed another triple with 1:46 remaining in the frame. The Aggies forced 10-straight empty possessions from the Ragin’ Cajuns in the final stretch of the period. Texas A&M found its way to the charity stripe six times in the third and held onto a 49-38 lead going into the final quarter.
Texas A&M carried its momentum through the final buzzer, never allowing Louisiana to get closer than 11. The Aggies finished out the contest with a 62-51 victory.
Texas A&M returns to the court Saturday, Nov. 7 at 11 a.m. inside Reed Arena against LSU New Orleans.