By Thomas Corhern, TTU Sports Information
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – After a fun and exciting tour of Portugal, the Tennessee Tech women's basketball team is back in Cookeville just before the start of the 2024-25 academic year, but the memories will be something the Golden Eagles will treasure for a lifetime.
"This trip was truly a transformational experience for all of us," said Tech Women's Basketball head coach Kim Rosamond, "and it really exceeded our expectations. From the beauty of Portugal, to embracing and learning about another culture, to the bond that was made on and off the court, we returned to Cookeville will grateful hearts and a much stronger bond."
Of course, the tour was more than just seeing the sights as basketball was still very much a priority. After a big 78-45 exhibition win over Porto Select, the Golden Eagles went back to work. In their next contest against CF Belenenses on Friday, the Tech women were tested in a close contest, but the Golden Eagles prevailed 72-70 to close out the tour 2-0.
"Our staff was so encouraged with what we saw from our team on the court," Rosamond said. "I loved the fact we had to make plays down the stretch in our second game to finish 2-0, and the extra practices and competition helped lay a strong foundation as we head into preseason practice.
"But this trip was about so much more than just basketball. At the end of the day, it broadened our perspectives, strengthened our team's unity and created lasting memories and lessons that will carry through the season and beyond. We are so appreciative of all of our donors and administration who helped make this trip become a reality."
Through the tour, the Golden Eagles got to see a lot of Portugal, with cruises in Porto and the Tagus River, while adventuring through Lisbon, Belem, Pena Palace, Sintra and Cabo de Roca.
Now, back in Cookeville and heading into the new academic year, the Golden Eagles will be back in the gym soon as they begin work toward another Ohio Valley Conference championship.
Fans can follow Tech Women's Basketball on social media -- @TTUWBB on X (formerly Twitter), ttuwbb on Instagram and Tennessee Tech Women's Basketball on Facebook.
