PROVO -- In their opening home game of the 2001-2002 season, BYU had the bigger growl as they pounced Washington State 94-67, Saturday afternoon. The victory improves the Cougars to 2-1 while Washington State remains winless at 0-3.
BYU jumped out to a 18-6 lead in the first seven minutes of the game and never looked back. The WSU Cougars never came within 10 points after that point. BYU led 49-26 going into the half.
BYU shot an amazing 68 percent from behind the arc for the game, making 13 of 19 shots. BYU also shot 56 percent from the field. BYU finished with 32 team assist while only committing 16 turnovers.
"It's always good to play teams from the PAC-10," said head coach Jeff Judkins. "We need to keep playing like this all year."
All-American Erin Thorn led the scoring attack with 21 points, making nine of 13 shots, and contributed five assists and five steals. She also committed zero turnovers and had no fouls. Freshman standout Danielle Cheesman scored 15 points in only 16 minutes of action off the bench.
"Thorn is our leading scorer, but what really impresses me is her defense," said Judkins. "With her and senior Stacey Jensen, I still believe we have the best backcourt in the conference."
Backup freshman point guard Kali Taylor scored 11 points, making all three of her three-point shots. Jensen scored eight points and dished out eight assists.
BYU will travel to southern California to start a long road trip as they face UCLA on Nov. 27 and USC on Nov. 29. The next home game for the Cougars will be against Oregon on December. 12. Tip-off will be at 4 p.m.