Turnovers become a major concern

Turnovers

coming based on how players are practicing. We need to understand that the only way we can win basketball games this year is to play hard-nosed defense. I am hoping that this is a reality check for them and we can go back to work.”

Some turnovers are expected, the coach said. Texas has a new point guard, new faces throughout the roster and an up-tempo offense that lends itself to turnovers.

Forward Nneka Enemkpali set a school record on Saturday with her sixth straight doubledouble of points and rebounds. But the soph- omore from Pflugerville also leads the team with 23 turnovers.

Don’t blame freshman Celina Rodrigo. She ranks fourth on the team in turnovers with 17, trailing Enemkpali, center Imani McGee-Stafford (18) and freshman guard Empress Davenport (18).

On a positive note, Enemkpali ranks second in the nation in rebounding, averaging 14 a game. She’s 18th in scoring, averaging 20.5 points a game.

Texas leads the nation (out of 343 teams) in blocked shots, averaging 7.7 a game. The 6-foot7-inch McGee-Stafford averages three, which ranks 15th individually.

The most anticipated home game of the young season will come Sunday against No. 14 Tennessee. It will be the first time the Longhorns will play the Lady Vols without former coach Pat Summitt on the bench.