Souhan: Battle-tested big shot honors alums

[Ignatius L Hoops]

Battle-tested big shot honors Gophers alums

Sophomore Amaya Battle saw her work pay off with a clinching three-pointer against Nebraska in front of former Gophers coach Lindsay Whalen and 97 other alumni.

www.startribune.com

She had to be overwhelmed by the pressure.

Amaya Battle was receiving a pass from her friend and fellow top recruit with the fourth-quarter clock winding down to take the biggest shot of the game in front of her former coach and 97 other program alumni, in the kind of test that will determine whether her team will go to the NCAA tournament.

It's moments like these that test an athlete's ability to handle circumstances, and unwanted thoughts, and the responsibility of making a play that could determine the direction of an entire program.

How did Battle rise to the occasion?

With a shot and a shrug.

"I'm not gonna lie," she said with a smile. "I don't remember it all."

 

[Ignatius L Hoops]

Battle hitting the three to give Minnesota a four point lead brought back memories of last season's win over Nebraska. With :45 seconds remaining and Minnesota leading by four, Jaz Shelley nailed a three while being fouled by Battle (her fifth). Shelley's free throw tied the game setting up Gradwell's game winner with Braun playing the point.

Last season there was little extra drama because between the Shelley and Gradwell threes, Sam Haiby went to the line and amazingly missed two free throws.

Anyway, today Battle stayed in the game and delivered the hero shot.