True Freshman Kanon Catchings Leads BYU in Scoring in Exhibition

PROVO, Utah – True freshman guard Kanon Catchings led BYU women’s basketball in scoring with 16 points in an 88-62 exhibition victory over Westminster College on Thursday night at the Marriott Center.

A Team Effort

The Cougars had a balanced scoring attack with five players reaching double figures. Catchings was 6-of-12 from the field and 3-of-6 from three-point range. Freshman forward Lauren Gustin added 14 points, while senior guard Shaylee Gonzales and junior forward Alisha Davison each scored 12. Sophomore center Sara Hamson rounded out the double-figure scorers with 10 points.

Catchings’ Impact

Catchings, the daughter of four-time WNBA All-Star Tamika Catchings, made an immediate impact in her BYU debut. She scored the game’s first five points and helped the Cougars build an early lead.

“I’m really proud of Kanon,” BYU head coach Amber Whiting said. “She’s a very talented player, and she’s going to be a great one for us.”

Defense Shines

BYU’s defense was also impressive, holding Westminster to 34.5 percent shooting from the field. The Cougars forced 16 turnovers and blocked four shots.

“Our defense was really good tonight,” Whiting said. “We were able to get stops when we needed them, and that led to some easy baskets on the other end.”

Looking Ahead

BYU will open the regular season on Monday, November 7, at Utah. The Cougars will then host Utah Valley on Thursday, November 10, before traveling to face Washington on Sunday, November 13.