Texas Tech University Athletics
Texas Tech Women's Basketball Season Triumphs
July 28, 2011 | Women's Basketball
April 8, 2011
By Jeremiah Washington, Athletics Communciations
Rebuilding a basketball program takes time and after the final buzzer went off for the 2010-2011 season, the Texas Tech Lady Raiders proved they are a force to be reckoned with on the court. According to fifth-year head coach Kristy Curry, sparked team chemistry and a fresh, young, recruiting class each played a key role in the Lady Raiders success.
"I think the biggest difference in this season from the past is that we finally got our recruiting classes in place," Curry said. "It takes three to four recruiting classes when you're in the situation we inherited to be able to make a difference. Our great freshman class became sophomores, our sophomores became juniors, and obviously we had a good freshman class. We were able to put three classes back-to-back-to-back."
Improved chemistry between the players also proved to be an effective factor.
"This team definitely had incredible chemistry," said Curry. "They were very unselfish, they really cared about each other and I think you can see that in their play."
The Lady Raiders started the season off with a 16-1 record, which is the best start Tech women's basketball has seen since the 2003-2004 season. This year also marked the first time the Lady Raiders have knocked off a number one team since 2004, when Tech beat Baylor at the United Spirit Arena back in February.
"I think it gave our team a lot of confidence. Anytime you can beat the number one team in the nation it gives you momentum," said Curry. "We talk a lot about putting an exclamation point and finish strong everyday, whether if it's in practice, a game or community service. That win gave our team a lot of momentum down the stretch."
Over 10,000 eager Tech fans watched on as the Lady Raiders downed Baylor, with many students and fans alike, rushing the court to celebrate the sweet victory.
"The fans give you that home court advantage and they're our sixth man," Curry said. "They were tremendous for us all season. Our home attendance ranked 10th nationally and it really does give you a huge advantage when you have a great crowd."
Tech ended the season with an overall record of 22-11, which was Curry's first 20-win season as a head coach for Texas Tech. The Lady Raiders also got the chance to put on their dancing shoes as they were invited to the NCAA Championship for the first time in five years. "It felt great, it was the first step in taking it back consistently," said Curry. "Our goal is to be year in and year out in the NCAA tournament."
The Lady Raiders finished the season sixth in the Big 12 Conference, which was Curry's best finish in the conference since taking on the head coaching position.
"We've had to rebuild this and it takes time, especially in the Big 12 South," said Curry. "It's unique and there is not another league like it in the country. We've made no excuses from day one. As hard and tough as it has been, it has been even more rewarding. Our final NCAA RPI was 31, which was the fourth best in the Big 12."
Five Lady Raiders received Big 12 postseason honors with Kierra Mallard, Monique Smalls, Casey Morris and Teena Wickett each being recognized, as well as Chynna Brown who received the Sixth Man of the Year award.
"Chynna is one of the most unselfish, team oriented players I have every coached," said Curry. "That honor is so deserving because she didn't care if she started or came off the bench, it's just what can I do to help my team."
Although the Lady Raiders experienced a lot of big victories and special moments during the 2010-2011 season, Curry insists it is the "little" moments that make the big moments so special.
"I think it's the little moments everyday that are special," said Curry. "When I see their growth and maturity in practice, in the locker room, or out in the community, and their success in the classroom. So many little victories that you have to have along the way that make the big victories like getting in the NCAA tournament even more special."
As the Lady Raiders wind down their successful season and begin to prepare and build towards next season, Curry is proud of her squad, for their hard work and dedication.
"I am just really proud of this team and how much they have believed in what we've asked them to do," said Curry. "Every step of the way that we have taken to take the program back to where we want it to be we've improved in so many different aspects. The kids deserve all the credit for that."
By the way things are building, next Lady Raider basketball season is bound to be filled with even more triumphs and accolades.
