Bearcats outpaced by UC Santa Cruz
SANTA CRUZ, Calif. — Willamette fell to UC Santa Cruz, 72-45, at West Field House on Friday. The Bearcats struggled offensively, shooting 28.3% from the field and making 7 of 31 three-point attempts. UC Santa Cruz capitalized in the paint, scoring 42 points and maintaining a strong rebounding presence with a 36-28 advantage.
Willamette started the first quarter with a focus on offensive rebounds, securing four second chances. Despite early shooting struggles, with just 5-of-18 from the field, they managed a scoring burst highlighted by a 3-pointer from Addie Hiler. Kaitlin Imai contributed a key jumper with an assist from Gabby Wilson, helping to narrow the gap.
UC Santa Cruz capitalized on efficient shooting, making 8-of-13 attempts, including two 3-pointers, to establish an early lead. The Bearcats responded with a late push, featuring a 3-pointer by Riley Walden, closing the quarter down 21-12.
Willamette opened the second quarter with a defensive highlight as Walden's steal led to Imai's jumper, cutting the lead. Despite this, UC Santa Cruz responded with strong play in the paint, extending their advantage through a series of successful layups.
The Bearcats briefly halted the momentum with a layup from Walden and a 3-pointer assisted by Leia Mata, trimming the deficit. However, UC Santa Cruz's consistent scoring, particularly from inside the key, allowed them to maintain their lead.
The quarter concluded with Willamette making a late push, highlighted by Imai's free throws and a three-pointer from Mata, narrowing the gap slightly. Nonetheless, UC Santa Cruz closed the quarter ahead, 36-26.
The Bearcats struggled to find their rhythm offensively in the third quarter, opening with missed opportunities despite strong defensive efforts. Emma Floyd connected on a 3-pointer, providing a much-needed boost. Hiler added a layup shortly after, cutting into UC Santa Cruz's lead.
Despite these efforts, UC Santa Cruz capitalized on their opportunities, extending their advantage with a series of successful field goals. As the quarter closed, the Bearcats trailed 54-33, aiming to regroup for the final stretch.
The Bearcats initiated the fourth quarter with Walden hitting a three-pointer, assisted by Mata, to counter UC Santa Cruz's early scoring. Walden continued to impact the game by adding a layup and another three-pointer, cutting into the home team's lead. Wilson contributed with an assist and a late layup to maintain momentum.
Despite the efforts, the Bearcats faced challenges with turnovers and missed opportunities. UC Santa Cruz capitalized on these errors, with Emilie Ngo and Danielle Tyner extending their lead. The quarter closed with the Bearcats trailing 72-45, after UC Santa Cruz made crucial free throws at the buzzer.
In their next game, the Bearcats will travel to face UC Santa Cruz on Saturday, Nov. 29. The matchup is set for 1 p.m. in Santa Cruz, California.