It's all about defense right now for Arizona State women's basketball because early on the offense resembles a turkey gone wrong on Thanksgiving.
ASU shut just 23.1% overall and went 1-of-15 from 3-point range Friday but still out-fought Atlantic-10 preseason favorite VCU 49-40 at Desert Financial Arena.
Like in the season opener Wednesday, a 56-47 win over Southland Conference favorite Stephen F. Austin, ASU led by only a point (33-32) in the fourth quarter before pulling away because of defense including two charges taken by guard Sydnei Caldwell and free throws down the stretch.
The Sun Devils closed the game on a 16-8 run over the final 8:14, showing some offensive glimpses of hope via ball movement and cutting.