LAFAYETTE , La. (2/5/04)-  The North Texas women’s basketball team used a late surge to put itself in position for a comeback victory, but ultimately Louisiana-Lafayette (11-8, 5-3) was able to hold off the Mean Green (8-12, 4-4) in the final seconds and escape with a 53-50 win Thursday at the Cajundome.  

“This is tough game to lose from the significance of the game in the standing,” said North Texas head coach Tina Slinker. “The 3-point shot really kept us in the game tonight but they were able to make some adjustments and the half”.  

Following a 10-0 run by the Ragin’ Cajuns, North Texas was facing its largest deficit of the game at 50-42 with 4:06 remaining.  The Mean Green didn’t go away; however, going on a 7-1 run that cut UL Lafayette’s lead to two with just 41.7 seconds remaining.

North Texas ’ press then allowed Kim Blanton to steal a pass at half court and go to the basket, where she was fouled on a lay-up attempt.  Blanton made the second of the two free throws and ULL was called for a foul on the following inbounds play that gave NT the ball once again.

ULL came right back to steal the inbounds pass and after being fouled, hit two free throws that made it 53-50 with just 16 seconds remaining.  Jill Medlock’s three-point shot fell short with only four seconds remaining and the Ragin’ Cajuns were able to pull down the rebound and secure the victory.

Medlock ended the game with a team-high 15 points and five 3-point baskets. Medlock is now sixth all-time for most 3-point shots in a single season with 44 on the year.  

North Texas returns home to face New Mexico State for the second time this season on February 7.