Booker’s 24 Points Lead Texas Past FDU, 85-65

Dominant Start Sets Tone

The Texas Longhorns established control early, jumping out to a 30-8 lead in the first quarter before Fairleigh Dickinson could mount any significant resistance. Madison Booker was instrumental in this surge, contributing 24 points and five assists to guide the home team to an 85-65 victory over the visiting Knights on Wednesday at the Moody Center.

Booker’s scoring versatility was evident throughout the contest. She made key contributions including a 17-foot jumper assisted by Zya Vann, a layup, and a 25-foot three-point jumper assisted by Breya Cunningham. Her ability to draw fouls also proved vital, as she successfully converted both free throws in the first quarter to extend Texas’s advantage.

FDU Struggles to Keep Pace

Fairleigh Dickinson struggled to find offensive rhythm against the Longhorns’ defense. The Knights managed only eight points in the opening period and were unable to close the gap significantly despite a 19-point second quarter. Reese Downey led FDU with 17 points, including three-pointers from distance and a pullup jumper in the third quarter.

However, the Knights’ offense stalled at times, failing to generate consistent scoring opportunities against Texas’s defensive pressure.

Ophir Weintraub paced the Knights with five assists, facilitating plays for teammates like Rebecca Osei-Owusu and Ally Kaminski. Ane Valle contributed seven rebounds and scored in multiple quarters, including a 23-foot three-pointer. Despite these efforts, FDU could not overcome the early deficit, ultimately falling to 0-2 on the season.

Second Half Execution

Texas maintained its intensity through the second half, outscoring Fairleigh Dickinson 41-27 in the final two periods. The Longhorns’ balanced attack kept the Knights off balance. Breya Cunningham dominated the boards with 13 rebounds, providing crucial second-chance opportunities for Texas. Her presence in the paint was a constant threat, as she scored via layups and hook shots throughout the game.

The fourth quarter saw both teams trade baskets, but Texas’s depth allowed them to sustain their lead. Grace Prenter hit a 23-foot three-pointer assisted by Lizzy Spaight to push the margin further. Leah Crosby added key scores for FDU, finishing with several layups and a turnaround jumper, but it was not enough to threaten the final outcome.

Final Result and Records

The victory improves Texas’s record to 1-0, while Fairleigh Dickinson drops to 0-2. The game drew an attendance of 9,688 at the Moody Center in Austin, TX. Booker’s performance highlighted Texas’s offensive efficiency, as they shot effectively from both inside and outside. The Longhorns’ ability to control the tempo and limit FDU’s scoring options ensured a comfortable win, setting a positive tone for their season.

Sources

ESPN