Arkansas Tech University played 13 home games during the 2015-16 women’s basketball season. All 13 opponents had a sad ride home.
The nationally 15th-ranked Golden Suns (23-3 overall, 21-1 Great American Conference) capped an undefeated home record by blitzing East Central University 98-63 in the regular season finale at Tucker Coliseum in Russellville on Saturday afternoon.
It marks the 15th season in the 39-year history of intercollegiate women’s basketball at Arkansas Tech that the Golden Suns have won all of their home games.
Arkansas Tech led 25-13 at the end of one quarter and 40-26 at halftime despite 16 first-half turnovers.
The Golden Suns cut their second-half turnover total to six to run away with their 21st consecutive home win dating back to the 2014-15 season.
Arkansas Tech took a 68-44 lead at the end of three quarters following a buzzer-beating layup by Fabiana Monte. Back-to-back 3-pointers by Calli White and Tierani Richardson early in the fourth quarter remained any remaining doubt.
All four of the Golden Suns’ seniors made contributions in their final home game.
Fatima Adams led the way with 17 points, five rebounds, four assists and three steals. Bre Brooks had 12 points, four rebounds, four assists and three steals. Fabiana Monte notched 10 points and three rebounds.
The lone four-year senior among the bunch — Caroline Eubanks — scored six points and collected three rebounds. The 6-foot-2 forward from Springdale had never attempted a 3-pointer before the 1:32 mark of the fourth quarter on Saturday. Her try from the right corner found nothing but net.
Anissa Pounds added 14 points and Danielle Frachiseur poured in 11 points for Arkansas Tech, which finished with a 43-20 rebounding advantage.
The Golden Suns will play their first-round game at the GAC Tournament at 5:45 on Friday, March 4, at Bruin Fieldhouse in Bartlesville, Okla. Top-seeded Arkansas Tech will face No. 8 seed University of Arkansas-Monticello.
Radio station KCJC 102.3 FM and www.arkansastechsports.com will provide live coverage.
