Gavin Petersen’s head coaching career began with a bang as Utah defeated Saint Joseph’s in an overtime thriller. Utes forward Mayé Touré hit a go-ahead jumper with 4.6 seconds on the clock to give Utah the one-point lead they didn’t let slip.
The 72-71 victory moves the Lady Runnin’ Utes to 4-1 on the season as they prepare for a matchup against the Montana State Bobcats on Sunday.
Petersen did not understate the pride he has in his team when he spoke post-game.
“Wow, what a game. Our players have been through a lot over the last few days. Just to see the looks in their eyes and the actions they’ve shown,” he said. “They were not going to give in. We just beat a good basketball team. We just gutted it out. I’m so proud of everyone in that locker room. Mayé [Touré] hit that big shot and Kennady [McQueen] got her the ball. I’m so proud of the entire team.”
The Utes have had a week of ups and downs. A last-second road loss, a coaching change and a short turnaround all played a part in the challenging week that Petersen referenced.
When asked about the coaching change specifically and how it impacted Friday’s game, senior guard Kennady McQueen offered her thoughts.
“We were shocked, to say the least, but this group of women can face adversity. We knew it was going to be quite the change. We are so happy for Coach [Lynne] Roberts in the WNBA but we knew our mission was still the same,” she said. “Our culture will stay intact and as players that’s what gave us comfort. I’ve been around Gavin [Petersen] for the last five years and when I stepped on campus I thought, ‘Wow, Gavin is going to make a great head coach one day.’ Here I am, getting to finish my final year with him. Best of luck to Coach Roberts, but the season isn’t over. The emotions have been a roller coaster but we’re gonna put our heads down and keep working for those goals.”
There was a clear emphasis that the culture and vibe of this team remain intact despite potential distractions and challenges. Touré was asked about her game-winning shot and described it with a smile on her face. She said, “I was actually looking for Kennady [McQueen]. She wasn’t open so I wanted to create something that could help the team and when it was there I took it. I wanted to make it for the team.”
An all-around team performance created opportunity for impressive stat lines. Junior guard Gianna Kneepkens scored 14 points to go along with four rebounds and three assists. McQueen tied Kneepkens with a game-high 14 points which she paired with four assists and two pivotal steals. Touré finished one rebound shy of a double-double, scoring 12 points and grabbing nine boards. Reese Ross provided a much-needed spark off the bench with eight points, 10 rebounds and two assists.
Overall, it was a resilient performance from the Utes. A close win over a solid Saint Joseph’s team will be valuable for Utah’s players and coaches moving forward.
