Pilots too much for Bearcats

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland cruised past Willamette University 95-43 in an exhibition game at the Chiles Center. The Bearcats struggled with turnovers, committing 32, while being outscored 74-18 in the paint. Despite the loss, their defense recorded seven steals, providing some defensive highlights. The University of Portland's dominant performance was also marked by a 50-point advantage in points off turnovers.

The first quarter began with Willamette taking an early lead, highlighted by a fast-break 3-pointer from Emma Floyd. The Bearcats continued to find success with a layup from Daisy Boling-Schmidt, pushing their score to 5 while maintaining a slim advantage. Despite early momentum, turnovers began to mount for Willamette, allowing Portland to capitalize on fast breaks and efficient shooting.

Portland responded by seizing control midway through the quarter, executing a run that put them ahead. The Bearcats struggled with ball security, leading to multiple turnovers that Portland converted into points. By the end of the first quarter, Portland held a commanding 33-13 lead, with Willamette looking to regroup for the next quarter.

Willamette began the second quarter unable to hold possession, resulting in multiple turnovers. Early on, Boling-Schmidt scored with an assist from Kaitlin Imai, but Portland responded with a series of fast-break points, capitalizing on Willamette's turnovers to extend their lead.

Despite efforts from Riley Walden, who added a late 3-pointer with just 28 seconds left, the Bearcats struggled to counter Portland's defensive pressure, resulting in a 31-11 scoring margin in the quarter. The quarter closed with Willamette trailing, as Portland led 64-24.

The third quarter was marked by a challenging stretch for Willamette, as Portland surged ahead with a series of scoring plays. Despite an early steal by Walden that showcased defensive effort, the Bearcats struggled to convert offensively, making just one basket in the quarter. Portland capitalized with efficient shooting, including three successful 3-pointers, and maintained control by forcing turnovers.

Portland extended their lead through fast-break points and consistent scoring in the paint, outpacing Willamette with a decisive 23-2 run in the quarter. The Bearcats managed to briefly halt Portland's momentum with a jumper from Imai, but the quarter closed with a significant deficit, the score standing at 87-26 in favor of Portland.

Willamette started the fourth quarter strong, with Walden's 3-pointer and subsequent block setting a positive tone. Peyton Gardner's defensive rebound helped maintain momentum as Walden followed up with a tip-in to cut into the deficit. Despite Portland's response, the Bearcats continued to push with Floyd's 3-pointer and Gabbie Wilson's assist, narrowing the gap.

As the quarter progressed, Willamette capitalized on turnovers, with Walden and Floyd contributing key steals and baskets. Wilson's 3-pointer, assisted by Imai, further closed the gap. The Bearcats' defense continued to apply pressure, forcing turnovers and converting free throws.

Despite the effort, Portland maintained a lead, and the quarter closed with a final score of 95-43 in favor of the home team. The Bearcats outscored Portland in the fourth, 17-8, showing resilience in the closing minutes.

The University of Portland is now 1-0 overall after the win, with no conference games played in the WCC.

In their next game, Willamette will face Warner Pacific on Friday, Nov. 7. The teams will tip off at 7:30 p.m. PT.