WICHITA, Kan. - The Eastern New Mexico University women's basketball team showcased a relentless defensive effort in their commanding 89-54 victory over Newman University at the Newman Classic on Saturday at Fugate Gymnasium.
 
The Greyhounds (2-3) set the tone early with suffocating defensive pressure, forcing Newman (2-3) into numerous turnovers that quickly translated into offensive opportunities. ENMU outshot the Jets by 30 shot attempts throughout the contest, demonstrating their dominance on both ends of the floor.
 
Junior guard Aaliyah Smith spearheaded the defensive onslaught, recording 7 steals to go along with her 19 points. Smith was particularly effective in the first half, accumulating 13 points and 5 steals before the break, consistently disrupting Newman's offensive rhythm.
 
Nataya Lockett led all scorers with 22 points on an efficient 10-of-15 shooting performance. Lockett's aggressive play helped the Hounds establish control in the paint, where ENMU outscored Newman 30-22.
 
Julieta Ceja added 15 points including four rebounds (three defensive and one offensive) and teammate Daci Smith connected on three of her four attempts from deep to finish with nine points.
 
The Greyhounds' defensive intensity directly translated to offensive production, as they scored 23 points off turnovers compared to Newman's 16. This ability to convert defensive stops into scoring opportunities proved to be the difference-maker in the lopsided victory.
 
ENMU's full-court pressure forced Newman into difficult situations throughout the game, resulting in rushed shots and limited offensive flow for the Jets. The Hounds' team-oriented approach on defense led to 14 fast-break points, allowing them to push the tempo and control the pace of play.
 
By halftime, the Greyhounds had established a commanding lead that they would only extend in the second half. The third quarter saw ENMU pour in 25 points followed by 27 points in the final period.
 
Eastern will return to action for its home opener against Southwestern Oklahoma State on December 1 at the Steve Loy Family Foundation Arena.