Bearcats let Walla Walla slip past

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette fell to Walla Walla, 78-72, in a tense matchup at Cone Field House. The Bearcats led for over 38 minutes, with a large lead of 18 points, but Walla Walla's fourth-quarter surge, fueled by 26 points and crucial free throws, turned the game. Willamette's 13 3-pointers and 31 bench points were not enough to counter Walla Walla's efficient 54.2% shooting from the field.

Willamette initiated the first quarter with strong offensive execution, with Emma Floyd contributing early with a layup and a three-pointer, assisted by Kaitlin Imai. Peyton Gardner's layup further extended the lead. The team effectively utilized ball movement, assisting on seven of their nine field goals, while maintaining a steady defensive presence with five defensive rebounds.

Despite Walla Walla's attempts to close the gap with three-pointers from Brooklyn Coe, Willamette maintained control. Gabbie Wilson's timely three-pointer and Daisy Boling-Schmidt's free throws helped counteract Walla Walla's scoring efforts. The quarter concluded with Alexis Dockter hitting a three-pointer at the buzzer, securing a 24-18 lead for the Bearcats.

Willamette initiated the second quarter with a strong offensive display, highlighted by Peyton Gardner's assist to Syd Shoemaker for a layup at 8:30, extending their lead. The home team showcased efficient shooting from beyond the arc, as Gardner and Riley Walden contributed with key 3-pointers, enhancing their momentum. Willamette's defense held firm, forcing turnovers and securing defensive rebounds, which fueled their fast break opportunities.

As the quarter progressed, Willamette maintained their scoring rhythm with Karsyn Ripplinger's fastbreak 3-pointer at 6:08, which was part of a notable scoring run. The team closed the period effectively with Gabby Wilson's 3-pointer at 26 seconds remaining, ensuring a strong finish. The quarter concluded with the Bearcats leading 45-33, building on a 21-15 scoring advantage over Walla Walla in the period.

Emma Floyd sparked a strong start for Willamette in the third quarter with back-to-back 3-pointers, expanding their advantage early. Kaitlin Imai contributed defensively with a steal, which further solidified their momentum. Despite Walla Walla's attempts to narrow the gap, including a 3-pointer from Allison Haslam, Willamette maintained control.

Aasia Williams responded to Walla Walla's push with a 3-pointer and a layup, helping the Bearcats sustain their lead. The quarter ended with Kaitlin Imai's layup, establishing a 63-52 lead for Willamette heading into the final stretch.

Willamette started the fourth quarter with a narrow lead but faced immediate pressure as Walla Walla quickly closed the gap. Gabby Wilson made a pivotal 3-pointer, assisted by Leia Mata, maintaining Willamette's edge at 6:52 with the score at 68-59. However, Walla Walla's Jaylo Bello responded with consecutive scoring plays, including a three-pointer that tightened the score.

Despite Jordyn Reed's successful layup early in the quarter, Willamette struggled to convert field goals, going 3-for-16 in the period. Walla Walla capitalized on their opportunities, hitting four 3-pointers and executing a series of free throws in the final minute. This offensive push allowed them to overtake the Bearcats, ending the game with a 78-72 victory.

In their next game, the Bearcats will face UC Santa Cruz on Friday, Nov. 28, at 1 p.m.