Taking It Outdoors

On Dec. 27, 2000, collegiate sports history was made. The Tennessee Lady Vols basketball team squared off against the Arizona State Sun Devils - outside. The Bank One Ballpark, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks, played host to the first-ever outdoor women's college basketball game. The Lady Vols held off a strong ASU team in 40 degree weather to earn the victory, 67-63. The game was held in front of 16,782 fans, a Pac-10 record for a women's basketball event.

Tennessee head coach Pat Summitt wanted to be a part of the historical event, which benefited breast cancer research, even though it came only a few days before her team would face the No. 1-ranked UConn Huskies. Summitt has done so much for women's basketball and this was just another historical event to add to her distinguished list.

The Lady Vols were plagued with turnovers from the beginning, something they cannot do if they intend to defeat the Huskies on Saturday. Their stifling defense and quick transition, however, carried them to the win. All-American Tamika Catchings led all scorers with 24 points and versatile guard Kristen "Ace" Clement added 12 points and 5 assists for the Lady Vols. Clement was back in the starting line-up and it was clear what a difference she makes while she's on the floor. Summitt calls Clement the heart and soul of the Lady Vols, especially on defense. Her absence during the 2000 championship game against UConn was evident in the loss. The Lady Vols need her on the floor in order to win and they need her intense defense and ability to distribute the ball. The Sun Devils proved they could hang with the big dogs and will be a force in the Pac-10. Their toughest competition will come from a young but fierce Stanford Cardinal squad. Although they lack height in the post, their backcourt is deep and can shoot as well as penetrate. ASU is looking ahead to the tournament and if they continue to play like they did versus Tennessee, expect to see them in March.

History was made on Wednesday night and now the Lady Vols look ahead to Saturday when they will take on Svetlana Abrosimova, Shea Ralph and company in Hartford, a game not to be missed.

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