Cox Pavilion grew tense as the Lady Rebels trailed 63-61. The clock rapidly counted down the last 30 seconds of the game. After a timeout called by coach Lindy La Rocque, the team walked back onto the court. The fans cheered as the ball was back in play. With the possession, sophomore guard Alyssa Durazo-Frescas shot the ball from beyond the 3-point line. The arena fell silent while the ball was mid-air. As the clock hit 12 seconds, the ball went into the basket. The arena erupted with noise as the opposing team called a time out. Excitement spread throughout the crowd as the Lady Rebels took the lead. The band played “Win With The Rebels,” setting the mood.
Durazo-Frescas has had a historic season with the Lady Rebels. This season alone, Frescas put up 249 points, averaging 7.5 points per game. Against New Mexico, she put up a season high of 20 points and six 3-point field goals.
Against Utah State, Frescas had a total of 17 points, including six field goals. She had a season high of six rebounds and 12 field goal attempts. She played a key role in the 86-32 win.
“I think Alyssa is certainly included in that, the program is obviously the strongest in the Mountain West now,” said Patrick Mayhorn, sports writer for the Aggship. “She is a very, very talented player within that team.”
On March 8th, the Lady Rebels won the Mountain West championship, beating the Wyoming Cowgirls 71-60. Frescas had a total of 12 points, with four field goals made. Her skill and dedication helped secure the ticket for March Madness.
“They knew what she could do, especially from beyond the width if they left her open, which I can’t imagine they were super pleased with,” said Mayhorn. “[especially] with the amount that they did that.”
The Lady Rebels had a historic run in the 2022-2023 season, losing only three games this season. The Lady Rebels went 31-3, and undefeated in conference and clinched a bid to the NCAA Women’s National Basketball Championship Tournament.
“You know, the women’s basketball team has really taken a turn ever since coach La Roqcue has been here,” said Durazo-Frescas. “And a lot of people are seeing that and a lot of people are seeing that and a lot of people are noticing us now, because, you know, we’re winning.”
The Lady Rebels in the 2022-2023 season won every home game.
“We got more fans than we did, and we did sell out the arena constantly,” Durazo-Frescas said.”it was crazy.”
The team gained national recognition throughout the 2022-2023 season. The Lady Rebels were broadcasted on Fox Sports, CBS, along with the ESPN broadcast for the March Madness tournament.. With this exposure, the Lady Rebels gained more fans, bringing more viewership to the team and the Mountain West as a whole.
Despite their success, the team also overcame plenty of challenges, especially during the preseason. The team was working to create the team the school saw throughout the regular season, and faced some losses during the preseason.
“Let’s say preseason, honestly, because even though we just lost one senior, every team is different,” said Frescas. “Every team is different, every year it’s different.”
With a new season approaching, the team was able to get into shape and become the dominant champions they became.
“But once that clicked, I mean, it was a great feeling. So, I’d say probably preseason was the most challenging part of the season.”
Frescas played a pivotal role in this historical season. Her hard word and dedication to the team was a driving force in the championship season.
“It’s just a surreal feeling,” Durazo-Frescas said. “I mean, I can’t think of a better word to describe it, it’s indescribable.”
