Razorbacks drown Waves for Collen 100th victory
By: Jason Carroll
Updated: December 2, 2012
UA SPORTS INFORMATION
FAYETTEVILLE - The University of Arkansas earned another victory at Bud Walton Arena on Sunday, defeating Pepperdine 64-39 to move to 7-1 on the season. The win was head coach Tom Collen's 100th victory at Arkansas, improving his career record to 100-67.
The Razorbacks were led by senior Sarah Watkins, who finished the game with 18 points and five rebounds. Senior Erin Gatling tied a career high with 11 points, including making a career high seven free throws.
Making her first career start, freshman Dominique Wilson recorded eight poins. Keira Peak led the team with eight rebounds.
Arkansas was spurred by strong defense, holding Pepperdine (2-5) to 26.9% shooting. UA forced 23 turnovers and had a 38-28 edge in rebounding.
"I'm pleased with our defense," Collen said. "I thought it was very solid. That was a good win today. I think Pepperdine is a solid team and will do well in their conference play."
Arkansas opened strong, beginning the game on a 15-8 run. Quistelle Williams hit a three point shot to open the game, and Peak scored six straight Razorback points to extend their lead.
UA continued their solid play throughout the first half, taking a 29-19 lead into halftime. Peak and Watkins each led the Razorbacks with eight points in the half. The Razorbacks shot 37% in the first half, recording eight of their points at the free throw line.
The Waves scored first in the second half, but Arkansas responded with an 8-0 run over the next 2:30 to extend the lead to 37-21. The Razorbacks had a strong defensive start to the second half, holding Pepperdine to just seven points in the first 10 minutes of action. The Razorbacks put the Waves away down the stretch, finishing with a 64-39 victory.
"I'm proud of the hundred wins," said Collen. "It comes at a time early in my fifth year, meaning we are averaging about eighteen wins a season. I would obviously like more but it shows great improvement."
The Razorbacks are back in action on Thursday when they host Kansas at 7 p.m. at Bud Walton Arena.
