Bearcats Swatted Down by Wildcats

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette (9-14, 6-8 NWC) fell to Linfield (18-3, 11-1 NWC), 68-44, at Cone Field House on Tuesday. The Bearcats struggled offensively, shooting 27.8% from the field and committing 16 turnovers, while Linfield capitalized with a 36-14 advantage in points in the paint and a 47-26 edge in rebounds. Despite a perfect 10-for-10 performance at the free-throw line, the Bearcats could not overcome the early 21-point first-quarter deficit.

The first quarter began with the Bearcats struggling to find their rhythm offensively, as they managed only one field goal from Peyton Gardner. Linfield capitalized on turnovers and defensive rebounds to establish momentum, scoring efficiently from both inside and beyond the arc. Willamette faced difficulty penetrating Linfield's defense, resulting in multiple missed attempts and turnovers. Linfield closed the quarter on a strong note, extending their lead with a fast-break layup by Jayden Ray.

The Bearcats showcased resilience in the second quarter, with Riley Walden contributing significantly, opening with a layup and later adding a three-pointer. Peyton Gardner and Alexis Dockter added to the scoreboard with jumpers, keeping the team's offense active. Despite turnovers, Willamette's defense saw Emma Floyd make a crucial block, and Walden secured multiple defensive rebounds. Linfield managed to maintain their lead through consistent scoring efforts, matching the Bearcats' seven field goals with two three-pointers. However, Willamette capitalized on Linfield's turnovers, with Floyd recording a steal and Walden converting free throws in the final seconds. The quarter ended with Linfield leading 37–20.

Linfield came out strong in the third quarter, executing a series of successful plays in the paint to extend their margin. The Bearcats struggled to find rhythm offensively, converting only three of 17 field goal attempts. Kaitlin Imai provided a highlight for the home team with a three-pointer, which offered some momentum, but Linfield maintained control with efficient scoring and rebounding. Despite defensive efforts from the Bearcats, including a steal by Imai, Linfield capitalized on second chances and maintained pressure. Willamette closed the quarter with a layup by Mattie Thompson, but the quarter ended with Linfield leading 59–30.

The Bearcats initiated the fourth quarter with Walden's successful jumper, setting an early tone. The team capitalized on turnovers, with Gardner and Imai each securing a steal, contributing to a run that narrowed the gap. Despite missing several attempts from beyond the arc, Willamette's defense remained active, forcing Linfield into seven turnovers. Imai led a surge in the latter half, scoring multiple baskets including a layup, and converting free throws to maintain momentum. Karsyn Ripplinger added to the score with two free throws, showcasing efficiency from the line. The Bearcats outscored Linfield 14-9 in the quarter, but Linfield maintained a 68-44 lead at the final buzzer.

In their next contest, the Bearcats will host Pacific on Friday, Feb. 20 at 5:30 p.m. in Salem, Oregon.