On a Chico State women's basketball team filled with hard workers and scrappy competitors, McKena Barker never fails to deliver an effort that always makes the Wildcats a tough opponent. The Chico native was at it again December 29 and 31, making huge contributions to the Wildcats' holiday wins over Cal State LA and Cal State Dominguez Hills, setting a career high in scoring and matching her personal best on the boards. Barker's outstanding play makes her the latest Wildcat of the Week.
Barker scored a combined 30 points in the two weekend contests, shooting over 55 percent from the field (10-of-18) and hitting all 10 of her free throw attempts. She also hauled in 20 rebounds, doled out six assists, and notched a block and a steal to help the Wildcats improve to 7-5 on the season and take over sole possession of fourth place in the California Collegiate Athletic Association.
Barker scored eight points, grabbed six rebounds and dished out three assists in the 'Cats' 64-55 win over Cal State LA Friday. She was even more impressive in Sunday's New Year's Eve matinee against Cal State Dominguez Hills, shooting 8-for-12 from the field and 6-for-6 from the foul line on the way to a personal-best 22 points and 14 rebounds—her ninth career double-double—as Chico State topped the Toros 74-57.
Barker currently is third on the Wildcats in scoring, averaging 10.8 points a game. Her 5.2 rebounds a game ranks second on the team.
Barker and the Wildcats face a challenging road trip this weekend, taking on Cal State San Marcos Friday and conference leader UC San Diego on Saturday.
