Bearcats face intense matchup against Boxers

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette University (9-15, 6-9 NWC) fell to Pacific University (10-15, 5-11 NWC) with a final score of 58-55 at Cone Field House. The Bearcats led eight times throughout the contest and forced a total of six steals, while also securing 39 rebounds. Pacific capitalized on its dominance in the paint, scoring 48 points inside, which helped secure the narrow victory.

The Bearcats started the first quarter with a strong defensive presence, securing 12 total rebounds, including five on the offensive end. Riley Walden contributed consistently, scoring a layup and adding two free throws to keep the team within reach. Kaitlin Imai provided a boost with a key 3-pointer, but Willamette faced challenges converting field goals, making only 4 of 18 attempts. Pacific capitalized on its opportunities in the paint, scoring 16 points and closing with an 18–12 lead.

The Bearcats began the second quarter with strong defensive pressure, generating a steal by Walden, who later scored a jumper to cut into Pacific's lead. Despite a mid-quarter scoring drought, Willamette's offense found a late rhythm, with Walden hitting a crucial 3-pointer with only six seconds remaining, helping close the quarter on a positive note. The quarter ended with Pacific leading 33-26, despite Willamette's late offensive surge, highlighted by productive plays from Imai and Daisy Boling-Schmidt contributing to the scoring efforts.

Willamette initiated the third quarter with a strong defensive presence, capitalizing on a turnover by Pacific with a steal by Emma Floyd. This defensive play led to a layup by Imai, assisted by Peyton Gardner, giving the Bearcats early momentum. Walden highlighted the quarter for Willamette, contributing with a three-pointer at 6:35 and a layup, narrowing the score gap. Willamette's defensive efforts, including a steal by Imai , were instrumental in maintaining pressure on Pacific. The quarter concluded with the Bearcats outscoring Pacific 13–10, closing the gap to 43–39 heading into the final quarter.

In the fourth quarter, the Bearcats initially took the lead with Floyd's 3-pointer, making the score 43-42. The quarter saw several lead changes, including a layup by Imai, which brought Willamette within two points, 53-51. Walden's steal and fast-break layup with 20 seconds remaining cut the gap to 57-55. Despite the late push, the game concluded with a score of 58-55 in favor of Pacific.

Looking ahead, Willamette will face Lewis & Clark on Saturday, Feb. 21. The game will tip off at 3 p.m. in Portland, Oregon.