Final Stats

By Michael Eldridge | UTAMavs.com

DENTON, Texas - UT Arlington won its third consecutive game and closed out nonconference play with a win at North Texas on Sunday, defeating the Mean Green 46-38 at The Super Pit.

Entering the day with the seventh ranked scoring defense in the nation, the Lady Mavericks (6-3) continued to keep their opponent's offense from being effective and clamped down when it mattered most. UTA held the Mean Green (1-8) to 26 percent shooting in the second half and under 30 percent overall, forcing 23 turnovers. It was the third consecutive game UTA held the opponent under 40 points.

"Being 6-3 has a nice ring to it," UT Arlington coach Krista Gerlich said. "Our kids are really proud of that. To have that confidence that we can keep a lead, stay in the lead and finish a game is really important for us, especially our young team."

The Lady Mavs never trailed against the Mean Green and led for 16:53 overall, sitting tied for just over three minutes.

Senior Chaun Williams led the Lady Mavs with 11 points in the game, hitting two 3-pointers and ended with a game-high three steals. Freshman Rebekah Van Dijk scored eight points and picked up eight rebounds, however, her double-digit scoring and double-double streaks came to an end at eight and seven games respectively.

UTA opened and closed the first half in control. The Lady Mavs' defense helped hold the Mean Green to just two points through the first five minutes and led 9-2 early in the contest.

North Texas would steal the momentum to tie the game at 11-11 but it was UTA who took control late. UTA went on a 12-2 run and built its lead back into double digits, going into the break 27-17. Williams and Cierra Johnson each led the Mavs with five points, while Williams picked up three steals.

In the second half, UTA was able to hit just six field goals overall but relied on the defense to remain in control. Williams led the Mavs with six in the second half and picked up two rebounds and a block.

UTA will enjoy a brief break for the holidays and return to action to begin Sun Belt Conference play on Dec. 30 against Georgia Southern at College Park Center.

Notables: UTA's win improved its record against its Metroplex rival, however, the Mean Green lead 30-27 all-time... UTA improved to 5-1 when leading at the half... The Lady Mavs finished 2-2 on the road in nonconference play.