Espinoza’s effort leads Buccaneers past Coastal Bend

BEEVILLE, Texas – Danielle Espionza had a breakout game and the Blinn women's basketball team steamrolled Coastal Bend here Saturday, 94-34.

Espinoza, a sophomore, scored a season-high 15 points to help the Buccaneers' offensive attack.

"I thought she played really aggressive and drove to the basket really well," Blinn (6-2) coach Jeff Jenkins said. "She doesn't look to score very often –– she's a really good defender and rebounder –– but tonight she was focused more on scoring."

Blinn got an all-around performance from its lineup as all 10 players scored.

Fatima Adams, a sophomore from Rudder High School, scored 15 points and Shunta Nevitt scored 13.

Freshmen Alexus Freeman, a Navasota High School product, and Shakera Barnes of Brenham each scored eight points. Tierra Tucker scored seven and Brianna Luton and Shakera Barnes each scored six.

"If everyone on the court looks to score a little bit it'll be a good springboard for us," Jenkins said.

Jenkins wanted the team to focus on its defensive play more in the game, and the Bucs stepped up their play by holding Coastal Bend to 14 first-half points to jump out to a 41-14 lead.

Blinn used its fast-paced, transition offense to outscore the Cougars 53-20 in the second half.

The Bucs have now won three straight since suffering an 81-61 loss to Temple College Nov. 12. They'll travel to Waco to play McLennan Community College Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

Buccaneers upset No. 8 Tyler
January 15, 2014 Buccaneers upset No. 8 Tyler