PULLMAN, Wash. — The Gonzaga University Bulldogs (16-7, 8-2 WCC) defeated Washington State University (4-20, 3-8 WCC), 81-75, with a decisive 27-point fourth quarter at Beasley Coliseum. The victory was aided by the Bulldogs' 25 points off the bench and 19 points off turnovers.

Paige Lofing scored 17 points, including four 3-pointers, to lead the offense effectively. Ines Bettencourt contributed with 10 points, recorded five assists, and collected two steals. Allie Turner added 16 points and three assists, showcasing accuracy with six baskets. Lauren Whittaker finished with 18 points and eight rebounds, draining two shots from beyond the arc.

The game opened with GU asserting early control, building a 7-point lead in the first two minutes. Bettencourt initiated the scoring with a 3-pointer assisted by Zeryhia Aokuso at 9:42. The Zags maintained the momentum with Taylor Smith contributing significantly, including a 3-pointer at 7:10, widening the gap to 13–5.

The Bulldogs' defense remained steadfast, with Turner securing a crucial steal early on. Washington State attempted a comeback, closing the gap to 19–17 with a late 3-pointer from Charlotte Abraham. GU ended the first quarter leading 19–17.

The Bulldogs opened the second quarter with a three-pointer from Lofing, assisted by Smith, at the 10:00 mark. The team continued to trade leads with Washington State, with Bettencourt also contributing a three-pointer at 8:21. Despite efforts from GU, including a crucial layup by Jaiden Haile with 14 seconds left, they trailed by the end of the quarter. The score at the end of the second quarter was Washington State 37, GU 35.

The Zags gained momentum midway through the third quarter with Lofing's three-pointer at 4:37, narrowing the gap to two points. This was part of a crucial sequence where the Bulldogs' defense forced turnovers, leading to fast-break opportunities that shifted the lead. Smith's steal and assist set up a layup by Bettencourt at 1:06, extending GU's advantage.

GU took command in the fourth quarter with a critical three-pointer by Whittaker at 6:31, overturning Washington State's narrow lead. A strategic timeout at 7:01 helped stabilize the team, and Turner further extended the lead with a three-pointer of her own at 5:34. The Bulldogs' defense was effective, with Bettencourt contributing a key block at 1:46, preventing Washington State from closing the gap.

Whittaker added a jumper at 4:01, followed by crucial free throws from Smith at 3:31, expanding the lead. Lofing's layup at 1:17 and Turner's successful free throws in the final minute ensured GU's victory. The fourth quarter ended 27-23 in favor of the Bulldogs, concluding the game with an 81-75 win.

Up next for the Zags is a matchup against Oregon State on Thursday, Feb. 5. The game will take place at McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, Washington.

Gonzaga Top Performers  
Paige Lofing  
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- 17 points  
- 4/5 three-point shooting  

Ines Bettencourt  
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- 10 points  
- 5 assists  
- 2 steals  

Allie Turner  
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- 16 points  
- 3/3 free throws made  

Lauren Whittaker  
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- 18 points  
- 8 rebounds