FARGO, N.D. — Gonzaga University (1-0, 0-0 WCC) defeated North Dakota State University (1-1, 0-0 Summit League), 81-66, leveraging a 37-28 rebounding advantage and 16 second-chance points.

Gonzaga opened the game with a strong offensive presence, highlighted by Allie Turner's three-pointer at 8:17, which set the tone early. Lauren Whittaker and Zeryhia Aokuso contributed key baskets, helping the Bulldogs maintain a back-and-forth contest with North Dakota State.

As the quarter progressed, GU capitalized on a turnover with a layup by Turner at 4:43 to regain the lead. In the final seconds, Julia Wilson's layup and subsequent free throw pushed the Zags ahead, closing the quarter with a 22–19 advantage.

The Bulldogs surged ahead in the second quarter with a crucial 3-pointer by Turner at 1:49, extending their lead to 31–24. Ines Bettencourt followed with another 3-pointer at 1:17, pushing the score to 34–24. North Dakota State struggled to respond effectively, managing only a late jumper from Avery Koenen with one second remaining. The quarter ended with the Bulldogs leading 34–26.

GU seized control early in the third quarter with a decisive scoring run, highlighted by a layup from Whittaker at 9:04, assisted by Taylor Smith, and a 3-pointer by Aokuso at 8:32. The team continued to build momentum, with Bettencourt contributing both a jumper and a fast break layup, extending the Zags' lead to 47–30.

The Bulldogs maintained their commanding position throughout the quarter, with Teryn Gardner and Wilson adding key baskets. Sierra Lichtie capped the scoring with a fast break layup in the final minute. The quarter concluded with the Zags leading 60–38.

Gonzaga maintained control throughout the fourth quarter with a consistent scoring effort, highlighted by a pivotal 3-pointer from Bettencourt at 5:41, assisted by Smith. Despite North Dakota State's attempts to close the gap, including an early three-pointer by Molly Lenz, the Zags' effective free-throw shooting and field goals kept them ahead. Turner added to the Bulldogs' lead with a layup at 1:24, and Whittaker's three-point play at 1:58 further solidified their position. The game concluded with a final score of Gonzaga 81, North Dakota State 66.

Turner led the team with 18 points, hitting four of five from beyond the arc. Bettencourt added 12 points and recorded four assists, while also collecting two steals. Aokuso contributed 14 points on six field goals. Whittaker posted 13 points and nearly achieved a double-double with nine rebounds.

The Bulldogs improved to 1-0 overall with the victory. North Dakota State now holds a 1-1 overall record.

Looking ahead, the Zags will face Toledo on Sunday, Nov. 9 at 11:30 a.m. in Toledo, Ohio.