Wichita State senior Abby Cater etched her name in the program’s history books with a stunning performance on Tuesday night, scoring a record-setting 42 points that led the Shockers to a 66-59 victory over Memphis at Koch Arena. This remarkable achievement not only highlights Cater’s abilities but also marks a significant turnaround for the team, breaking a seven-game losing streak.
Cater’s scoring prowess was evident as she contributed an impressive 63% of her team’s total points. She shot 15-of-29 from the field, including 4-of-6 from beyond the arc, and was perfect from the free-throw line, going 8-for-8. In addition to her scoring, she also secured seven rebounds and made two blocks and two steals during her 37 minutes on the court.
“She was in attack mode for the night,” said WSU head coach Terry Nooner. He recognized that, while Cater is one of the best finishers and drivers in the conference, her determination was on full display during the game.
Cater’s achievement is particularly significant as it surpasses the previous record of 41 points held by Kareema Williams since 1992, placing Cater among an elite group of scorers for the program that includes legends such as Alex Harden and Marguerite Keeley. “When we recruit kids here, we talk about trying to be a legend,” Nooner noted. “For her to now have her name in the record books…she can bring them here and say she has her name in the record books.”
Interestingly, this standout performance came at a time when Cater had been struggling, averaging just 10.2 points per game. Three days prior, she scored only six points against South Florida and had been grappling with her shooting, particularly from three-point range. However, her aggressive approach on Tuesday transformed her game, exemplified by her strong drives to the basket.
Nooner had encouraged Cater to embrace her aggressive style, anticipating that Memphis would focus heavily on her. Ultimately, Cater’s resilience paid off, bringing her back to her roots where she thrived in tough, competitive environments back home in PG County, Maryland. “I feel like it definitely prepares you,” she reflected, crediting her background for instilling a gritty playing style.
Despite recent challenges, including a fractured thumb that affected her performance, Cater was able to push through pain and rediscover her form. The victory was crucial for the Shockers, who needed not only a win but a morale boost after a rocky start to the conference season.
With the win, Wichita State improved to 4-12 overall and secured their first conference victory, a significant milestone for a team seeking to turn its fortunes around. On the other hand, Memphis fell to 7-12 overall and 1-5 in the conference.
Post-game, Cater expressed her gratitude for the win, acknowledging its importance after a long stretch without success. While she is still processing her record-setting performance, she remains focused on the team’s overall goals. Cater’s determination and newfound confidence will undoubtedly propel the Shockers forward as they look to capitalize on this much-needed victory.