Latta's Seven Threes Lead Boise State to 84-48 Season Opener
The Broncos controlled the rebounding battle and forced 26 turnovers to defeat Bushnell in a 36-point victory.
By Javier Sanders ·
Boise State guard CJ Latta scored 21 points on seven of eight three-point attempts to lead the Broncos to an 84-48 victory over Bushnell on Monday morning. The win marked the start of the season for the home team, which controlled the pace of the game through aggressive defense and sustained pressure on the glass.
The Broncos established their dominance in the opening minutes. After Bushnell tied the score at 4-4, Mason Borcherding capitalized on offensive rebounds to score twice. Latta then drained two three-pointers, and Kenna Garza finished with a late layup to secure a 16-10 lead heading into the second quarter.
Boise State extended its advantage during the second frame with a 14-0 run from 7:02 to 3:59. The squad converted six consecutive field goals during that stretch while forcing 10 turnovers and recording five steals. Keirra Thompson accounted for three of the steals. The Broncos entered halftime with a 38-21 lead.
The third quarter saw the margin grow to 33 points. Boise State held Bushnell scoreless from 5:19 until 1:10, outscoring the visitors 25-12 in the period. Latta added four more three-pointers during this stretch, including two during the decisive run. The Broncos forced eight turnovers in the quarter.
Boise State managed the final 10 minutes with ease, committing only one turnover while grabbing 16 rebounds, seven of which were offensive. Latta opened the fourth quarter with another three-pointer. Late baskets from Izzie Harms and Milly Sharp helped maintain the lead as the Broncos outscored Bushnell 21-15 in the final frame.
Head coach Gordy Presnell noted that Latta provided a scoring boost when the team's shooting struggled otherwise. "I was really pumped for CJ to come in and hit seven threes," Presnell said. "She did a very nice job for us when we weren’t hitting that well." The coach acknowledged the team has work to do ahead of their next contest.
The Broncos will host Portland State on Friday, November 6. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
