Bearcats Drop Home Contest to Loggers

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette fell to the University of Puget Sound, 62-46, at Cone Field House. The Bearcats (5-9, 2-3 NWC) managed a narrow three-point lead at halftime, but the Loggers (11-2, 4-0 NWC) surged ahead with a dominant 23-point final quarter. The Bearcats' bench contributed 19 points, while Puget Sound capitalized with 42 points in the paint and a 50-30 rebounding advantage to secure the victory.

Willamette started the first quarter by capitalizing on perimeter shooting, connecting on four 3-pointers. Walden's early defensive rebound and assist to Emma Floyd's 3-pointer at 8:50 marked a key sequence. Despite some turnovers, the Bearcats maintained momentum with back-to-back 3-pointers from Hiler, putting them ahead 11-8 after Puget Sound briefly tied the game.

Imai contributed with a pair of free throws at 3:36, extending their lead. Wilson's 3-pointer at 2:26, assisted by Imai, further solidified their position. Puget Sound closed the gap with a late layup, but a free throw by Walden with 0:07 left ensured the Bearcats held an 18-15 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Willamette maintained their edge in the second quarter through strategic scoring and tight defense. Walden led with a key 3-pointer early, assisted by Imai, pushing the home team ahead. The Bearcats' defense held strong, with Hiler contributing a crucial defensive rebound, while Peyton Gardner scored a layup, extending the lead late in the quarter. Despite Puget Sound's efforts to close the gap, the Bearcats led 27-23 at halftime.

The third quarter began with Puget Sound making an early push, tying the game and then taking the lead with a pair of baskets in the paint. The Bearcats struggled to find their rhythm offensively, converting only a few baskets including a successful 3-pointer by Floyd at 1:50, to keep pace. Despite defensive efforts, including steals by Walden and Hiler, the Bearcats faced difficulties in countering the opponent's stronger scoring run.

Puget Sound extended their advantage, capitalizing on points in the paint, while the Bearcats managed to reduce the gap with a layup by Wilson in the closing seconds. The quarter ended with the Bearcats trailing, 39–36.

Puget Sound seized momentum early in the fourth quarter with a series of successful plays in the paint, extending their lead with a tip-in by Autumn Hill just 20 seconds into the quarter. The Bearcats struggled to find their rhythm offensively, missing several shot opportunities, while Puget Sound capitalized on their free throw attempts, further widening the gap.

The Bearcats managed to close the gap slightly with free throws from Alexis Dockter and a late jumper by Walden. However, Puget Sound maintained control, converting numerous free throws down the stretch and benefiting from strong rebounding. The quarter concluded with Puget Sound holding a decisive lead, resulting in a final score of 62-46.

The next challenge for the Bearcats is an away game against Linfield on Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 5:30 p.m. The game will take place in McMinnville, Oregon.