CHRIS CODUTO/Arizona Daily Wildcat Governor Janet Napolitano discusses a play with team manager Courtney Peters, as coordinator of operations Craig Haubrich, left, looks on. Napolitano made a guest appearance at Saturday's women's basketball game as an honorary assistant coach.

With about three minutes left on the clock in the women's basketball game against Washington State Saturday, coach Joan Bonvicini called in a little help from the sidelines.

But she didn't just call upon anyone. She turned to honorary assistant coach Gov. Janet Napolitano, who responded to the call, joined the huddle and sketched "LA" on her clipboard, making a call that enabled a hi-lo shot and a score.

"The entire game turned on my play," Napolitano said in jest during a post-game press conference.

Bonvicini said she told Napolitano earlier that they couldn't use that play until the team was up by 30, but she didn't mind when the Governor made her call.

"She's my boss. If she asks to call a play, she calls a play," said Bonvicini. "We're honored that she accepted the invitation. She looked good with that red jacket on. I thought that it was great that she's a Wildcat."

Napolitano said she came to the UA to coach because Bonvicini was the first to ask, but she is not partial to either university.

"Let's just say this; I'll probably end up going to some ASU games too. I'm the governor for the whole state, and at some point I need to get up to NAU as well."

When Napolitano arrived in the women's locker room, the team presented her with a personalized jersey along with team gear, a picture and an autographed ball.

Senior forward Krista Warren thought that the Governor was interesting. "She was fun and quirky," Warren said.

After the game, Napolitano talked about the importance of college athletics, particularly for females, and said that Title IX has been extremely beneficial for female athletes.

"Title IX has opened many opportunities for women, not only in sports, but in college as well. Title IX has made a huge difference for women in athletics," she said.

"I think it's great to come to school, play sports, but also get your education." Napolitano added.

Explaining just how far women's athletics has come, Napolitano shared her experiences from when she was younger and played basketball herself.

Female athletes then played in half-court games, with six members on each team, and the wardrobe was different.

"We actually had gym suits that were bloomers. You guys have never had to wear bloomers, but they don't look good," Napolitano said.

Overall, Napolitano enjoyed her visit to Tucson and the event.

"I think watching the game from the chairs there on the floor is very different than even being in the front of the stands and listening to the coaches talk with the players during the game," Napolitano said. "It really took my mind off the Legislature."

The coaches also took some time to comment on their similar appearances.

"I'm a little taller, she's a little bit more powerful," Bonvicini said.

Arizona won the game against Washington State 80-50.