Willamette wins against Whitworth

SPOKANE, Wash. — Willamette University (4-7, 1-1 NWC) edged Whitworth University (1-9, 0-1 NWC), 60-59, in a tense conference clash at Whitworth Fieldhouse. The Bearcats secured the victory by outscoring their hosts 16-21 in the final quarter and converting 10 of 21 free throws. Whitworth held a 40-30 advantage in paint points but fell short as the Bearcats' defense forced 11 turnovers, resulting in 13 points off turnovers.

Willamette began the first quarter with Peyton Gardner opening the scoring through a layup at 9:06. The Bearcats capitalized on fast break opportunities, highlighted by Riley Walden's three-pointer at 6:00 to tie the game. Willamette displayed efficient ball movement with assists on four of their seven baskets.

As the quarter progressed, Willamette maintained their offensive rhythm. Kaitlin Imai added a layup to keep the score close, and Alexis Dockter's three-pointer at 1:01 regained the lead for the Bearcats. Gabbie Wilson's late free throw solidified a two-point advantage as the quarter concluded, with Willamette leading 20–18.

Willamette took control early in the second quarter with a strong presence in the paint, scoring 12 points inside. Walden and Dockter contributed key layups, helping to maintain momentum. Gardner's fast break layup at 7:28 added to the team's scoring drive, giving them a slight edge.

Despite some turnovers, the Bearcats' defense held firm, limiting Whitworth's second-chance points and keeping the opponent's shooting percentage low. The Bearcats capitalized on their defensive rebounds, and Wilson's free throws at 1:56 regained the lead. Willamette closed the quarter effectively with a layup from Daisy Boling-Schmidt and a final basket by Walden with three seconds remaining, leading 34–29 at halftime.

The third quarter saw a balanced exchange between Willamette and Whitworth, with the Bearcats gaining a slight edge. Wilson ignited the momentum with a layup at 7:48, followed by Emma Floyd's 3-pointer at 6:57, extending Willamette's advantage. Despite Whitworth's attempts to close the gap, highlighted by Addyson Gallatin's layup, the Bearcats maintained their composure. Imai assisted Gardner for a crucial layup at 0:55, ensuring Willamette ended the quarter with a 44–38 lead.

The fourth quarter saw the Bearcats maintain a lead despite Whitworth's efforts to close the gap. Boling-Schmidt started the quarter by converting a free throw to extend the lead. Imai and Gardner contributed with a layup and an assist, respectively, helping the Bearcats to stay ahead. Walden's two key 3-pointers further solidified the team's position, pushing the score to 57-48.

Whitworth responded with a series of successful layups, narrowing the deficit. However, Willamette's defensive efforts, including steals by Wilson and Boling-Schmidt, limited Whitworth's scoring opportunities. Despite a final push by Whitworth, which included a last-second 3-pointer, the Bearcats secured a close 60-59 victory as the quarter closed.

In their next game, the Bearcats will travel to face Whitman on Saturday, Jan. 3. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. at the Sherwood Athletic Center in Walla Walla, Washington.