A year ago, the Oregon Ducks went 11-21 in a year that will go down as Kelly Graves’ worst since being in Eugene.
Now, a year later, Graves and the Ducks proved that this is a new team, with a new outlook in their game on Sunday night against the No. 12 Baylor Bears. Oregon got a massive upset, winning 76-74 in the biggest victory for this women’s program in several years.
Led by Deja Kelly and Alexis Whitfield, it was a great showing from Graves’ team that has missed the last two NCAA Tournaments.
Oregon vs. Baylor Keys to the Game
- Oregon’s defense was the key in the first half, holding Baylor to just 10-for-35 from the field. The Ducks took a 35-27 lead into the break, led by Alexis Whitfield, who had a game-high 12 points in the first 20 minutes, on 5-for-5 shooting.
- Oregon held a 14-point lead going into the fourth quarter, but they let Baylor back into the game in the final 10 minutes. This was a tied game with under a minute remaining, but the Ducks managed to pull out the victory in the end.
- Deja Kelly proved to be the leader that the team hoped it was getting out of the transfer portal this year. Not only did she emotionally lead the Ducks in this game, but her production was next-level, leading the team with 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists.
Oregon vs. Baylor Players of the Game
- Deja Kelly: 20 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists
- Alexis Whitfield: 16 points, 5 rebounds
- Nani Falatea: 12 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists
Oregon vs. Baylor Notable Stats
- Oregon turned the ball over 10 times in the first half, but still managed to build an eight-point lead.
- Baylor shot just 29% from the floor in the first half
- Oregon finished the game shooting 50% from the floor and had 22 points from their bench in this game.
What’s Next for Oregon Ducks?
- Nov. 12 — vs. North Texas
- Nov. 18 — vs. Grand Canyon
- Nov. 20 — vs. Auburn Tigers
- Nov. 25 — vs. Georgia Tech
- Nov. 26 — vs. South Dakota State
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