by Zachary Knecht
Featured Image: Photo by Weber State Athletics
The Weber State Wildcats look to put out the hot Utah Tech Trailblazers as they return to their home court. That won’t be an easy task against a team who has been dominating their competition, especially as of late.
The Wildcats have fallen victim to a two-game losing streak but have played well at home, showcasing a 2-1 record in the early season. They will need to continue playing well at home to avoid dropping their third straight.
Battle of the Duos
WSU and Utah Tech both have a dynamic duo of stars who will duel Saturday. Weber State’s forwards Daryn Hickock and Jadyn Matthews have shined bright for them this year, while guards Breaunna Gillen and Macie Warren have led the offensive onslaught for the Trailblazers. The Wildcats duo have combined for a healthy 33.0 points per game, but the Trailblazers leaders have been nothing short of spectacular with 39.5 combined. WSU needs to determine a game plan to slow down such offensive firepower, which will require a complete defensive effort.
Three-Pointers
The Trailblazers have excelled from behind the arc this season, posting an unfathomable 89.1 points per game, hitting 11 threes per contest on 36.6% shooting. The Wildcats will have to limit these shots to keep them in this game, which they have done well this year. Opposing teams are only shooting 26.9% from three against Weber State, good for second in the Big Sky Conference defensively. A strong defensive effort will disrupt the rhythm of a high-powered offense.
The Wildcats will need to turn it around on their end from three this game as well. Though they’re limiting their opponents on three-pointers, they are shooting even worse at 26.3%. Finding their rhythm will be just as important as disrupting Utah Teach to improve their 61.9 points per game.
Limit Turnovers
Turnovers have continued to be devastating for this Wildcat team. With 19.5 turnovers per game, this team is severely crippling itself in any competition. WSU’s role players have been turning the ball over excessively this season, but if they can maintain possession and give their playmakers a chance to produce, they can break this losing streak before it gets out of hand.
It will be anything but easy for the Wildcats as they face off against the Trailblazers Saturday at 1 p.m. MST as they try to turn their season around.