Bearcats battle Whitman

WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Willamette University (4-8, 1-2 NWC) fell to Whitman College (7-4, 2-0 NWC), 51-39, at Sherwood Center on Saturday. The Bearcats struggled offensively, shooting 30% from the field and committing 22 turnovers. Whitman capitalized with a 34-10 advantage in the paint and converted 11 of 13 free throws to secure the victory.

Willamette started the first quarter with a focus on fast breaks, generating momentum through key plays by Kaitlin Imai and Gabbie Wilson. Imai's three-pointer at 2:50, assisted by Wilson, was a highlight of the period, showcasing effective collaboration that narrowed the deficit. Despite facing pressure from Whitman's defense, which resulted in seven turnovers, the Bearcats managed to stay competitive and close the quarter strong with Wilson's three-pointer at 2:12.

The team ended the quarter trailing 17–9, setting the stage for a potential comeback by building on their strong shooting from beyond the arc.

Willamette faced challenges in the second quarter, marked by a series of turnovers and missed opportunities, but key defensive plays added some momentum. Emma Floyd and Imai contributed with steals, and Imai's scoring efforts included a fastbreak jumper early in the period. Despite the defensive stops, scoring was limited with just six points added in the quarter.

Whitman capitalized on their opportunities, extending their lead through consistent scoring, including a late layup by Jordan Leith with two seconds remaining. The Bearcats managed to close the quarter with a jumper by Alexis Dockter, but Whitman maintained an advantage, leading 28–15 at halftime.

Riley Walden sparked Willamette with back-to-back 3-pointers early in the third quarter, narrowing Whitman's lead. Defensive intensity was evident with Daisy Boling-Schmidt's block and Floyd's 3-pointer, further closing the gap. Despite Whitman's offensive pressure, the Bearcats managed to keep pace, with Walden converting a three-point play to maintain momentum.

Willamette closed the third quarter with a narrow 13-14 advantage, but Whitman held a 41-29 lead overall.

The Bearcats opened the fourth quarter with defensive pressure, forcing Whitman into early turnovers. Daisy Boling-Schmidt missed a layup attempt after a Whitman turnover at 9:43, while Imai later capitalized on a fast-break opportunity with a 3-pointer at 5:39 to cut into Whitman's lead.

Midway through the period, Willamette's Peyton Gardner contributed with a layup assisted by Addie Hiler at 4:14, keeping the pressure on the home team. Despite trading scores, the Bearcats matched Whitman point for point, with Gardner hitting a 3-pointer at 0:26, bringing the final quarter score to an even 10–10.

The game concluded with Whitman maintaining its lead, ending with a final score of 51–39 in favor of the home team.

In their next game, the Bearcats will host Pacific Lutheran on Saturday, Jan. 9. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. at their home venue in Salem, Oregon.