UNT Women’s Basketball Triumphs in Fierce Comeback Against Temple
DENTON, Texas — In a thrilling showdown at the Super Pit, the University of North Texas (UNT) women’s basketball team clinched a remarkable 70-67 comeback victory over Temple, marking their first lead of the game with just 2:13 remaining in the fourth quarter.
The Mean Green (16-5, 8-1 AAC) faced their largest deficit of the night, trailing by 19 points with 3:06 left in the second quarter. This comeback is notable as it represents the most significant deficit the team has overcome since they recovered from a 20-point deficit against IUPUI on December 5, 2015.
Strong Defense and Ball Control
UNT displayed impressive ball handling throughout the game, snapping an impressive streak by the Owls (12-8, 6-3 AAC) that saw them force ten or more turnovers in eleven consecutive games. The Mean Green managed to limit themselves to only nine turnovers.
First Half Struggles
Temple entered halftime with a substantial 13-point lead, having shot 55% from the field and scoring 41 points— the highest first-half total UNT has allowed since February 24, 2024. This defeat marked the Owls’ first loss this season after leading at the break.
Coach’s Reflection
“We give a lot of credit to Temple; they came out with an excellent game plan,” stated head coach Jason Burton. “They were co-champions last season for a reason, and they displayed their toughness. However, a huge testament goes to our players for their incredible performance today.”
Standout Performances
Tommisha Lampkin shone bright, achieving her 10th double-double of the season and the 27th of her career with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Alongside her, teammate Kyla Deck matched Lampkin’s scoring with 16 points, going a perfect 7-for-7 from the field, with 12 points coming during the vital second half as the Mean Green fought back.
Decisive Moments
With 2:13 left in the game, Ereauna Hardaway scored a crucial layup, propelling the Mean Green to a 70-69 lead. From that moment forward, UNT maintained their advantage, ultimately forcing Temple’s Tiarra East to miss a 3-point attempt at the buzzer. East, who entered the game averaging 16.5 points per game, was limited to just two points, marking her lowest tally since March 2, 2022, during her freshman season.
Record-Setting Start
This victory solidified UNT’s claim to the best start in program history for conference play, now boasting an impressive 8-1 record. Additionally, the Mean Green have now moved into a share of the lead in The American, following UTSA’s loss to South Florida on Wednesday night.
Upcoming Challenge
The Mean Green will next travel to Tampa on Saturday, February 1, to face off against the Bulls, with the game scheduled to tip off at 6 p.m. CT. Fans can catch all the action streamed live on ESPN+ and via the Varsity Network App.
