Bearcats Vanquish Lewis & Clark

PORTLAND, Ore. — Willamette University (10-15, 7-9 NWC) defeated Lewis & Clark College (6-19, 3-13 NWC), 86-67, at the Pamplin Sports Center. The Bearcats secured the win with a strong second-half performance, outscoring the River Otters 52-35 after the break. The visitors capitalized on their three-point shooting, while also dominating the boards with a 45-34 rebounding advantage. Lewis & Clark could not overcome the Bearcats' efficient shooting and defensive presence, which included eight blocks.

The Bearcats started strong in the first quarter, with Kaitlin Imai sinking a 3-pointer in the opening seconds to take an early lead. Willamette's defense was effective, recording three blocks and out-rebounding Lewis & Clark 13-12, which limited the opponent's second-chance opportunities. Riley Walden contributed with a fast-break 3-pointer midway through the quarter. Despite some turnovers, Willamette maintained control, with Daisy Boling-Schmidt and Alexis Dockter adding to the scoring. Willamette closed the quarter with a 6-point advantage, leading Lewis & Clark 18-12 after the first.

Alexis Dockter sank a key 3-pointer early in the second quarter, assisted by Imai, to regain a narrow lead. Undeterred by turnovers, Willamette maintained composure, with Boling-Schmidt converting crucial free throws at 5:18 to keep the visitors within striking distance. As the quarter progressed, Imai hit a pivotal 3-pointer with just over a minute remaining, leveling the score. In the final seconds, Karsyn Ripplinger delivered from the free-throw line, hitting two shots to secure a slim lead. The quarter closed with Willamette narrowly ahead, 34-32, setting up a competitive second half.

Willamette surged ahead in the third quarter with an efficient offensive performance, spearheaded by Boling-Schmidt's early layup and Walden's 3-pointer, establishing a lead. The team excelled in the paint, adding 10 points, and extended its advantage with key contributions from Imai, who added a layup, and Walden, who was active on the boards and at the free-throw line. The Bearcats maintained momentum with timely defensive stops, including blocks by Boling-Schmidt and Emma Floyd. Mattie Thompson further expanded the lead with consecutive successful layups, assisted by Imai. Willamette closed the quarter strongly, with Dockter converting a three-point play to put the visitors ahead 62–49.

The Bearcats established control early in the fourth quarter with Dockter's jumper, setting the tone for a strong offensive showing. Peyton Gardner added a three-pointer to extend the lead, and Imai's fast-break jumper contributed to a commanding advantage. Emma Floyd's three-pointer highlighted a stretch that saw Willamette capitalize on defensive rebounds, supported by Walden's block. The team's consistent scoring and defensive stops maintained the momentum.

Willamette closed the quarter effectively, with Jordyn Reed and Gardner adding points in the paint, and Dockter sealing the quarter with another three-pointer. The team outscored Lewis & Clark 24-18 in the quarter, concluding the game with an 86-67 victory.