Elle Ladine delivered a sensational performance, scoring a career-high 40 points to lead the Washington Huskies to a commanding 90-71 victory over Northwestern on December 28, 2024. This pivotal Big Ten Conference win took place at Welsh-Ryan Arena in Evanston, Illinois, marking a significant moment for the Huskies.
Ladine’s Career-High Performance
Ladine’s scoring brilliance was evident early in the game, as she tallied 26 points in the first half alone. She showcased remarkable efficiency, shooting 60% from the field (15-of-25) and connecting on 6-of-10 attempts from three-point range. This historic performance ties her for the highest-scoring game by a Big Ten player this season and places her in elite company as only the fourth player in Washington Huskies history to score 40 points in a single game.
The previous Huskies to achieve this milestone include:
- Amber Melgoza: 40 points vs. Stanford in 2018
- Kelsey Plum: Record-setting 57 points vs. Utah in 2017
- Kristi Kingma: 40 points vs. Oregon State in 2012
A Well-Rounded Contribution
Ladine’s impact extended beyond scoring. She added six assists, three rebounds, and two steals to her stat line, showcasing her all-around game. Her 40-point outburst shattered her previous career-high of 27 points, achieved earlier this season, reflecting her growth and ability to excel under pressure in conference play.
Key Support from Teammates
While Ladine stole the spotlight, her teammates made significant contributions to secure the victory:
- Dalayah Daniels: Delivered a double-double with 20 points and 15 rebounds, dominating the boards.
- Hannah Stines: Added 10 points, providing consistent scoring support.
Team Dominance
The Huskies controlled the game from start to finish, outscoring Northwestern in all four quarters. They capitalized on Northwestern’s mistakes, turning 17 turnovers into 33 points. Additionally, Washington excelled in fast-break situations, outscoring the Wildcats 28-8 in transition. This comprehensive effort improved the Huskies’ overall record to 10-4 and their Big Ten record to 1-1.
Historical Significance
Ladine’s performance not only highlighted her individual talent but also etched her name in the Washington Huskies’ record books. Her 40-point game ties her with Amber Melgoza for the most points scored by a Husky since 2018, further solidifying her status as a rising star in college basketball.
Conclusion
Elle Ladine’s record-breaking game against Northwestern underscores her scoring prowess and leadership on the court. As a freshman, her ability to deliver such a dominant performance in a crucial Big Ten matchup speaks volumes about her potential. The Washington Huskies will look to build on this momentum as they continue their conference campaign.
For more updates on Washington Huskies women’s basketball, visit the official team website.