Bearcats set back by Cal Lutheran

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — Willamette University (3-7, 0-1 NWC) fell to California Lutheran University (9-0, 2-0 SCIAC), 67-46, at Gilbert Arena. Willamette briefly led after the first quarter, but the Regals surged ahead with a 20-point second quarter. The Bearcats committed 22 turnovers, leading to 24 points for Cal Lutheran.

Willamette opened the first quarter with strong perimeter shooting, connecting on five 3-pointers. Emma Floyd contributed significantly with two successful attempts beyond the arc, helping the Bearcats establish an early lead. The team's defensive efforts were highlighted by a block from Syd Shoemaker, which set the tone for a solid defensive showing.

Despite multiple turnovers, the Bearcats maintained a narrow lead through effective ball movement, notching five assists in the quarter. Riley Walden's 3-pointer at 49 seconds extended the advantage, but Cal Lutheran responded late, closing the gap with a layup and free throw by Janna Holley. Willamette led 15–13 at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter saw Willamette initially gaining momentum with a series of plays that included a layup by Aasia Williams, assisted by Walden, to tie the game at 17-17. This was soon followed by another scoring drive, as Walden connected on a layup, putting the Bearcats ahead 19-17. Gabbie Wilson extended the lead momentarily with a successful 3-pointer, bringing the score to 22-19.

Despite these efforts, Cal Lutheran responded with their own scoring run, including a 3-pointer from Natalie Villamor, and surged ahead. Willamette's attempts to regain the lead were hampered by turnovers and missed opportunities at the free-throw line. The quarter concluded with Cal Lutheran leading 33-26, as the Bearcats trailed going into the halftime break.

Willamette opened the third quarter by focusing on defensive rebounds and maintaining pressure, securing a total of nine defensive boards. Despite this effort, turnovers proved costly as the Regals capitalized on these to extend their lead. Walden contributed significantly with points in the paint, but the team struggled to gain momentum offensively.

The scoring was relatively balanced in this quarter, with Willamette putting up 12 points. However, Cal Lutheran's ability to convert in the paint and capitalize on fast breaks enabled them to outscore the Bearcats with 16 points. As the quarter concluded, Cal Lutheran maintained their advantage, leading 49-38.

Cal Lutheran established control early in the fourth quarter with a series of inside plays, extending their lead with a 16-point effort in the paint. The Bearcats struggled to find their scoring rhythm, managing only eight points in the quarter. Despite a late 3-pointer from Floyd and a layup by Mattie Thompson, the team was unable to close the gap.

Willamette's defensive efforts included a notable block by Kaitlin Imai and two steals, but turnovers and missed free throws limited their ability to capitalize on these plays. The quarter concluded with Cal Lutheran leading 67–46 as the final buzzer sounded.

The next challenge for the Bearcats is a road matchup against Whitworth on Friday, Jan. 2. The game will tip off at 5:30 p.m. at Whitworth's venue in Spokane, Washington.