Bearcats outplayed by Oregon Tech

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette University fell to Oregon Tech, 78-58, at Cone Field House. The Bearcats struggled offensively, shooting 37.7% from the field and committing 14 turnovers. Oregon Tech capitalized on second-chance opportunities with 19 points and dominated in the paint.

Willamette began the first quarter by trading early baskets with Oregon Tech. Peyton Gardner connected on a jumper at 8:32, assisted by Riley Walden. Although Oregon Tech gained momentum with a series of successful layups, the Bearcats remained competitive by scoring from the bench, including Gabbie Wilson's jumper at 4:23 that cut the deficit.

Despite Oregon Tech's efficient scoring in the paint, the Bearcats responded with a late three-pointer from Addie Hiler, assisted by Wilson, narrowing the gap as the quarter concluded. The first quarter ended with Oregon Tech leading 20-9.

The second quarter saw the Bearcats initially struggling to break through Oregon Tech's defense, with Gardner providing a spark through a successful layup early in the quarter. Despite efforts from players like Daisy Boling-Schmidt, who contributed from the bench, Oregon Tech capitalized on turnovers and quickly extended their lead. A late surge by the Bearcats included a 3-pointer from Alexis Dockter, but Oregon Tech maintained control. Oregon Tech's lead extended to 40–19 by the end of the quarter, leaving the Bearcats with a challenge heading into the next half.

Willamette began the third quarter with defensive resilience, securing three steals to disrupt Oregon Tech's offensive rhythm. Despite turnovers, the Bearcats capitalized on second-chance opportunities, with Walden contributing key points, including a late three-pointer to keep the scoring momentum.

Oregon Tech responded with strong interior play, scoring 16 points in the paint to widen their lead. The Bearcats' efforts to keep pace were evident in their bench contributions, adding four points to the quarter's tally. The quarter closed with Oregon Tech leading 61–34.

In the fourth quarter, Kaitlin Imai, assisted by Hiler, made a three-pointer, setting an early tone. Imai continued to be a pivotal player, contributing with a jumper and another three-pointer, as well as a series of free throws that added to the scoring drive.

Despite Oregon Tech's responses, including a three-pointer by Ayla Marston, the Bearcats maintained their offensive momentum. Karsyn Ripplinger and Mattie Thompson contributed crucial points in the paint, closing the quarter strongly with a layup from Imai at the buzzer. Despite the late 24-point fourth quarter, Willamette could not overcome the deficit, ending the game with a score of 78-58.

Looking ahead, Willamette will travel to face Occidental on Thursday, Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. The game will take place in Los Angeles, California.