Willamette overpowers Lewis & Clark

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette (6-10, 3-4 NWC) defeated Lewis & Clark (5-11, 2-5 NWC), 82-57, at Cone Field House on Friday. The Bearcats' strong second quarter, in which they outscored Lewis & Clark 32-10, set the tone for the win. The team capitalized on 25 points off turnovers and maintained a 14-8 advantage in steals to secure the victory.

Willamette began the first quarter with a strategic opening as Riley Walden connected on a 3-pointer assisted by Kaitlin Imai, establishing an early lead. The teams exchanged baskets, with the Bearcats maintaining a narrow margin through Peyton Gardner's successful free throws.

As the quarter progressed, Lewis & Clark responded with a series of successful shots from beyond the arc, pulling ahead. Willamette's Emma Floyd managed a 3-pointer and a block, but consistent offensive rebounds allowed Lewis & Clark to capitalize and extend their advantage, concluding with Lewis & Clark leading 22-14.

The second quarter began with Willamette seizing control through an impressive offensive display. Imai initiated the momentum with a layup, and the team capitalized on this with a series of successful shots, including back-to-back 3-pointers, which contributed to a strong scoring run. Willamette's defense was also effective, limiting Lewis & Clark to just 10 points and forcing several turnovers. The Bearcats' efficient shooting, including 12 field goals on 16 attempts, helped them pull ahead. As the clock wound down, Willamette extended their lead, closing the quarter with a score of 46–32.

Willamette opened the third quarter with a strong defensive presence, forcing a turnover at 8:52 and converting it into a scoring opportunity. Addie Hiler's three-point shooting bolstered the home team's efforts, with key shots at 5:36 and 3:06, contributing to the momentum shift. Gabbie Wilson added a layup at 5:05, extending the lead further.

Despite Lewis & Clark's attempts to close the gap, including a three-pointer by Kaitlen Carns at 2:54, the Bearcats maintained control. Daisy Boling-Schmidt's jumper at 1:39 and Walden's three-pointer at 0:23 helped solidify the lead. Willamette led 61–45.

Willamette began the fourth quarter by maintaining their lead through efficient offense and strong rebounding. Walden contributed significantly with a tip-in and a 3-pointer early, pushing the score to 67–47. Gardner added to the momentum with an assist and free throws, further extending the lead. Throughout the quarter, the Bearcats capitalized on Lewis & Clark's turnovers and fouls to maintain control. Boling-Schmidt and Wilson each made key 3-pointers, increasing the advantage as the team closed the quarter with a strong finish.

The Bearcats' solid defense and effective ball movement kept Lewis & Clark at bay, concluding the game with a commanding 82-57 victory. Looking ahead, Willamette will face Pacific on Saturday, Jan. 24, in Forest Grove, Oregon. The game is set to tip off at 3 p.m.