SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Gonzaga University (7-5, 0-0 WCC) defeated Missouri State (7-5, 0-0 CUSA), 68-49, at Great Southern Bank Arena, securing the victory with a 41-24 rebounding advantage.

Lauren Whittaker led with 19 points, shooting 8-for-12 from the field, and collected 16 rebounds, including 14 defensive boards. Her 16 rebounds rank as the second-best performance for a freshman as she recorded her fourth double double of the year. Jaiden Haile contributed 12 rebounds and posted two blocks. Allie Turner scored 13 points, sinking three 3-pointers, and added three assists. Zeryhia Aokuso tallied 11 points and recorded six assists.

Gonzaga began the first quarter with a strong offensive display, highlighted by Whittaker's early contributions. Whittaker scored the opening basket on a jumper at 9:42, assisted by Aokuso, and continued to lead with another layup shortly after. The Bulldogs extended their lead further with Turner sinking two 3-pointers, the first at 8:05 and the second at 6:05, boosting the score to 12–4. Despite some turnovers and fouls, GU maintained control throughout the quarter, finishing with a 14–8 lead over Missouri State.

Gonzaga shifted momentum early in the second quarter, utilizing defensive stops to fuel their offense. Haile's layup at 8:51 sparked a series of effective plays, including a fast-break layup by Taylor Smith at 6:26, assisted by Turner, which extended their lead. Whittaker added a three-pointer at 4:55, prompting a timeout from Missouri State. GU maintained their advantage through steady scoring, culminating in Teryn Gardner's three-pointer with 25 seconds remaining. The quarter ended with the Bulldogs leading 29–18.

The Zags seized control in the third quarter with a decisive 3-pointer by Whittaker at 8:14, assisted by Aokuso, pushing their lead to 14 points. Smith added to the momentum with a layup and a free throw at 2:49, widening the gap. Missouri State attempted to respond but GU maintained their advantage, concluding the quarter ahead 52–37.

The Bulldogs maintained their lead with a strong defensive start to the fourth quarter, highlighted by Turner's steal at 9:03, which led to a fast break layup assisted by Ines Bettencourt. GU continued to control the game as Aokuso scored consecutive baskets, extending their advantage. Whittaker contributed significantly with a three-pointer at 4:17 and a key defensive block and rebound at 4:43.

Missouri State attempted to close the gap with a pair of free throws and a jumper, but the Bulldogs' offense was relentless. Paige Lofing's late three-pointer at 1:07 secured the commanding lead. The game concluded with GU securing a 68-49 victory.

In their next game, the Zags will travel to face UC Riverside on Sunday, Dec. 21. The matchup is set for 2 p.m. at the UC Riverside campus in Riverside, California.

Gonzaga Top Performers  
Lauren Whittaker  
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- 19 points  
- 16 rebounds (Ranks second-best for a freshman)  
- 2 blocks  

Allie Turner  
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- 13 points  
- 3 3-pointers  
- 3 assists  

Jaiden Haile  
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- 5 points  
- 12 rebounds  
- 2 blocks  

Zeryhia Aokuso  
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- 11 points  
- 6 assists  

Ines Bettencourt  
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- 4 points  
- 4 assists  
- 3 rebounds