Though she had not played a minute of college ball, the Chico State women's basketball team began the season hoping McKena Barker would be able to consistently contribute to the Wildcats' fortunes in 2015-16. Six games into the campaign the redshirt freshman has already exceeded expectations, as evidenced by her solid play during the 'Cats' first two conference contests, which also resulted in her first career double-double. Barker's work on the hardwood makes the Chico native the latest Wildcat of the Week.
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Barker scored a combined 15 points and pulled down a team-high 17 rebounds against San Francisco State and Cal State East Bay. She shot 50 percent from the field (6-for-12) while her stat sheet also included five assists, two steals and a block.
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The highlight of Barker's weekend was Friday against San Francisco State, when she tallied 10 points and 12 rebounds – five on the offensive end – to post the coveted double-double. Though held to five points Saturday against Cal State East Bay, Barker led the Wildcats with five boards and three assists.
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Barker is currently averaging 7.0 points a game and shooting 57.7 percent from the field. She is the Wildcats' top rebounder, averaging 5.8 boards a contest. Â Â
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Following their non-conference game Tuesday versus Fresno Pacific, Barker and the Wildcats return to CCAA play Saturday, hosting Cal State San Marcos at Acker Gym.
