Rams Unable to Thwart First-Place Bulldogs in 79-61 Loss

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FORT COLLINS, Colo. – – Ryun Williams wants everything done one way: with heart. Conviction turns a good team into a great one, fixes small droughts and disallows them from becoming large ones.

Just last game, the Rams had what Williams would describe as their "best defensive effort of the year." The same energy failed to seep into their matchup against Fresno State on Wednesday in a 79-61 loss at Moby Arena.

The effort was a far cry from the close game they had against the Bulldogs just two weeks ago.

"We really dug in at their place," Williams said. "Tonight just seemed flatter on the ball. We created a lot of those points for them. To beat Fresno, you've got to play well on both ends of the floor. Tonight, we just weren't up to the challenge on either one."

Beating Fresno is something the Mountain West hasn't figured out. The Bulldogs have won each of their 12 conference matchups to open the year as part of 15 wins in their last 16 tries.

The Bulldogs' greatness can cause losses. Even when the Rams gave a solid effort, they fell short at the buzzer. Without the same drive, especially on the defensive end, it's impossible to win.

In the second quarter, the Rams were outscored 29-7. The span consisted of multiple scoring runs, including a 16-2 stretch to open the stanza.

"I think our energy just plummeted," Jamie Bonnarens said after pacing the Rams with 12 points. "Especially on defense, we weren't talking as much, we weren't active."

In the team's last contest, the Rams limited the three starting guards of Fresno State to 20 points. This time, their output ballooned to 58, including a game-high 27 from Aly Gamez.

The quickness of the trio is evident. The only way to counter quickness is through anticipation and the ability to "compete." In the conference, every team will take advantage of lethargy, especially the one at the top of the standings.

"I think those top guys, our first (six to eight) kids, they've got to create some energy for each other," Williams said. "As a coach, you want to give them that energy, but when they get between the lines, that's their job. It comes down to taking care of your business.

"The league is such, where if you're in the doldrums a bit, and you're struggling, there's no deep breath. These teams are lined up and everybody's got talent. You've got to bring a great compete and intent every night, otherwise, this stuff happens."

Moving forward, Williams doesn't see a magic elixir. Looking in the mirror is the only way his team can truly find their path.

When the game was out of reach, the Rams' bench was given a chance to try their hand. The effort, one which resulted in a 22-14 margin in the final period, is one Williams hopes his leaders can replicate.

"I thought that last group, I'm proud of that group," Williams said. "We call that the, 'Gold Team,' and they work every single day, they do a lot of scout team stuff. They work really hard to give that top group a really good look. For them to come in and play with great intent, and great purpose, that should send a message."

A week before the Rams head to Logan, Utah to take on Utah State represents time to reset – a break Williams needs his team to utilize.

For More on Colorado State Women's Basketball follow: Twitter – CSUWBasketball | Instagram – csuwbasketball | Facebook – @CSUWBasketball

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