Whitney Branham continues to build on what is already a memorable freshman season for the Chico State women's basketball team. The hustling point guard was a major factor in the Wildcats snapping a five-game losing streak over the weekend, turning in solid performances – including a career-best effort Saturday – as the 'Cats topped both San Francisco State and Sonoma State. Branham's top-notch play makes her a back-to-back winner of Wildcat of the Week.
Branham averaged 13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists in the two weekend tilts, shooting 69.2 percent from the field and 62.5 percent from beyond the 3-point arc. Friday Branham scored seven points and doled out four assists in Chico State's 67-40 victory over the Gators, then on Saturday hit five 3-pointers en route to a career-high 19 points while adding three assists and a personal-best seven rebounds as the Wildcats downed the Seawolves in overtime 63-56.
Branham ranks second on the Wildcats in scoring, averaging 10.3 points a game, and is tied for second on the team with 15 3-pointers on the season. Her 86.2 free throw shooting percentage is fifth among California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) players and ranks 46th in the nation.
Branham and the Wildcats head back on the road this weekend, taking on Cal State East Bay Friday in Hayward before traveling to Seaside Saturday to battle Cal State Monterey Bay.
