SPOKANE, Wash. — Gonzaga University (12-6, 4-1 WCC) defeated the University of Portland (9-8, 3-2 WCC), 69-55, at the McCarthey Athletic Center, overcoming an early deficit with a dominant 34-point third quarter. The Bulldogs capitalized on second-chance opportunities with 14 points and forced 20 points off turnovers in front of 5,713 attendees.

Lauren Whittaker led with 22 points and recorded a double-double with 10 rebounds. Zeryhia Aokuso contributed 12 points, converting 6 of 7 free throws. Allie Turner added 10 points, including two 3-pointers, and dished out two assists. Ines Bettencourt scored seven points and collected two steals.

GU starting their scoring efforts through Whittaker, who scored twice in the paint, both times assisted by Taylor Smith, tying the game at 4-4 before the Zags trailed 13-6 at the end of the first.

Aokuso contributed significantly for the Zags in the second quarter, scoring a layup and converting a free throw to narrow the deficit. Teryn Gardner added pressure with a crucial three-pointer at the 6:27 mark, assisted by Turner, reducing Portland's lead. Jaiden Haile made an impact with consecutive baskets, including a layup at 3:11, helping GU maintain their momentum. Despite Rodriguez hitting a three-pointer for Portland, the Zags' defensive rebounds and free throws allowed them to finish the quarter strong.

GU took control in the third quarter with a robust offensive performance, outscoring Portland 34-14. The performance marked the first time since November 24, 2023, against Liberty that GU has scored more than 34 or more points in a quarter.

Whittaker was instrumental, contributing with a layup at the 9:10 mark to initiate the scoring and later sinking a three-pointer with 2:07 remaining. Turner added to the momentum with two successful three-point shots, one at 8:43 and another at 5:37, further extending the lead. Smith and Aokuso were pivotal in maintaining defensive pressure, as Smith recorded a crucial steal at 4:42. The quarter concluded with Whittaker converting a layup and subsequent free throw with 14 seconds left, cementing the Bulldogs' commanding position heading into the final quarter.

GU maintained a steady lead throughout the fourth quarter, matching Portland's 13 points to secure their victory. Haile initiated the scoring with a jumper just 42 seconds into the quarter, extending the lead to 58-42. Bettencourt contributed crucial points with a jumper at 8:36 and added two free throws at 4:51, pushing the Bulldogs' advantage further. Whittaker finished with a layup and a free throw at 1:01, bringing the final score to 69-55 in favor of the Zags.

Looking ahead, GU will host San Francisco on Thursday, Jan. 14, at McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, Washington. The game is set for 6 p.m. PT.

Gonzaga Top Performers  
Lauren Whittaker  
----------------------  
- 22 points  
- 10 rebounds  
- 2 steals  

Zeryhia Aokuso  
----------------------  
- 12 points  
- 6/7 free throws made  
- 2 assists  

Jaiden Haile  
----------------------  
- 8 points  
- 8 rebounds  

Taylor Smith  
----------------------  
- 5 assists  
- 3 rebounds  
- 1 block