SPOKANE, Wash. — Gonzaga University (10-5, 2-0 WCC) defeated Pepperdine University (9-5, 0-2 WCC), 75-52, delivering a dominant 43-27 rebounding advantage and 17 second-chance points.

Jaiden Haile led with 21 points on 9-of-14 shooting and added 12 rebounds, marking her first double double. This performance was part of a historic moment for GU, as it's the first time in their history to have two freshmen achieve a stat line of at least 20 points and 10 rebounds each in a season. Lauren Whittaker posted 22 points, converting all nine of her free throw attempts, and collected nine rebounds. Allie Turner contributed 17 points, sinking five 3-pointers and dishing out four assists. Taylor Smith recorded eight points, secured six rebounds, and added four assists with two steals.

Gonzaga opened the game strongly, with Whittaker scoring a layup just 19 seconds into the quarter, assisted by Smith. Whittaker continued to contribute with another layup and a free throw at 8:01, putting the Zags ahead early. Turner extended the lead with a 3-pointer at 7:16, assisted by Zeryhia Aokuso, helping GU establish momentum. Despite a late push by Pepperdine, which narrowed the gap, the Bulldogs maintained the lead and ended the quarter ahead 14–11.

The Bulldogs surged ahead in the second quarter with a strong offensive performance, marked by efficient ball movement leading to a 19-11 scoring advantage. Smith and Aokuso were pivotal, each contributing to key plays that maintained momentum. Smith's layup at 6:59, assisted by Aokuso, was a highlight of GU's efforts in the paint, where they outscored Pepperdine 8-4. The quarter concluded with GU leading 33-22.

The Zags seized control in the third quarter, opening with a 3-pointer by Turner at 9:52, setting the tone for a strong offensive stretch. Haile contributed significantly with a layup at 5:51 and another at 1:16, both assisted by Turner, helping the Bulldogs maintain momentum. Whittaker capitalized at the free-throw line, hitting four consecutive free throws, and Aokuso added a 3-pointer with 33 seconds left. GU outscored Pepperdine 22–13 in the quarter, ending with a 55–35 lead.

The Bulldogs solidified their control in the final quarter with an effective offensive display. They outscored Pepperdine 20–17, highlighted by Whittaker's three-pointer at 7:35, which extended their lead significantly. Smith contributed consistently, adding crucial points from the paint and securing defensive rebounds that limited Pepperdine's second-chance opportunities. Gonzaga maintained their advantage throughout the quarter, with Turner and Haile each adding key baskets. 

The next game for the Bulldogs will be a matchup against Seattle on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. GU will take to the road for this contest in Seattle, Washington, with the game set to tip off at 6 p.m. PT.

Gonzaga Top Performers  
Allie Turner  
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- 17 points  
- 5 3-pointers  
- 4 assists  

Taylor Smith  
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- 8 points  
- 6 rebounds  
- 4 assists  
- 2 steals  

Jaiden Haile  
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- 21 points  
- 12 rebounds  
- 3 assists  

Lauren Whittaker  
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- 22 points  
- 9/9 free throws made  
- 9 rebounds