Winning on the road isn't always easy, especially in Big 12 Conference play, where the competition is more challenging than in nonconference play.
The Arizona State Sun Devils women's basketball team lost its first game of the season to the BYU Cougars on the road, falling by nine points in a 71-62 loss on Saturday.
The Sun Devils started the game off strong, shooting 50 percent from the field in the first half and at one point led by eight points over the Cougars at the beginning of the third quarter.
However, Arizona State went cold on the court in the second half, being held to just 6-for-26 from the field through the last two quarters.
Additionally, the Sun Devils suffered a significant 29-rebound deficit, losing the rebound battle 54-25. The team's leading rebounder, McKinna Brackens, was held to just two rebounds but still managed to score in double figures with ten points, despite shooting just 2-for-11 from the field.
Head coach Molly Miller has consistently encouraged her team to rebound both offensively and defensively, and to convert turnovers into points throughout the season.
But, the Cougars have given the Sun Devils problems throughout the game on the road, especially limiting point guard Last-Tear Poa to three points and no assists.
The only bright spot for Arizona State is guard Gabby Elliott, leading the team with 21 points while playing 31 minutes of action.
On a positive note, the Sun Devils still have 15 conference games remaining this season, giving them ample opportunity to demonstrate they can be a formidable challenge for Big 12 opponents.
Arizona State will return to Tempe to face the UCF Knights on Wednesday night before returning on the road to face Olivia Miles and the TCU Horned Frogs on Sunday, January 11.