LUBBOCK, Texas – It all boils down to consistency and execution for Northwestern State as it makes its first big trip of the season to its first Big 12 opponent of the season, Texas Tech. 

It's no secret the fourth-year head coach Jordan Dupuy is looking for both of those things after two straight less than ideal starts to games in a row. The Lady Demons (2-2) trailed their previous three opponents, Central Baptist, Jackson State and ULM, by a combined 33-10 through the first five minutes of each games. 

"We have to see more consistency on both ends of the floor," Dupuy said. "We didn't get the offensive execution we needed, especially to start the game. We have had three bad starts in a row so that will be critical. Our ability to slow their transition game down and execute on the offensive end will be a must." 

NSU is shooting 32 percent from the field on the young season and just 21 percent from distance, well below the clip it shot at a season ago in both categories.  

"We're not shooting the ball well right now as a team," Dupuy said. "But there are so many other aspects to this game where you can elevate yourself and elevate your team. There is more to the game that what they are judging themselves on right now." 

Kira Bonner has been the most consistent scorer for the Lady Demons through four games. She is the only player to reach double digits each time and now leads the team with a 12.3 per game average. It was her 9-0 run to start the third quarter against ULM that got NSU back within three points after being down by 18 early in the game.

Tip-off with the Lady Raiders (2-0) is scheduled for 7 p.m. at United Supermarkets Arena and can be heard live locally in Natchitoches on 92.3 FM The Fox or via www.nsudemons.com.

Texas Tech has a pair of dynamic scorers, that are averaging 20.0 points per game and a dominant post presence in the way of Brittany Brewer who is averaging a double-double, 17.5 points and 14 rebounds, to go along with her 6.5 blocks per contest.

 "It's exciting to be able to play a Big 12 team on their home floor," Dupuy said. "They're a team that's going to present a lot of challenges. They're very well coached just from seeing last year's film. They're very strong on the boards, able to play both man and zone presents you some problems out on the perimeter and down low. 

"It's just going to be a great challenge for us but one that I see our team responding to and hopefully responding the right way in a game like that helps you down the road in conference play. 

Stay connected to NSU women's basketball by following @NSUDemonsWBB on Twitter, @nsuladydemons on Instagram or by liking Northwestern State women's basketball on Facebook.