SAN DIEGO — The Gonzaga Bulldogs (19-7, 11-2 WCC) defeated the University of San Diego (9-18, 3-11 WCC), 66-56, at the Jenny Craig Pavilion, maintaining a consistent lead throughout the game. The Bulldogs capitalized on their rebounding advantage, securing 40 boards to San Diego's 28, contributing significantly to their victory.

Lauren Whittaker posted a double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds, adding three steals in an all-around performance. Zeryhia Aokuso contributed 12 points, converting 5 of 9 field goals. Allie Turner was perfect from the free-throw line, making all six attempts and finishing with eight points and four assists. Sierra Lichtie recorded two steals and three rebounds, maintaining defensive pressure throughout the game.

The Bulldogs started the first quarter strong, with Whittaker opening the scoring with a layup at 9:37. GU maintained their momentum through effective play in the paint, contributing 12 points, while forcing five turnovers from San Diego. Taylor Smith added to the scoring with a jumper, assisted by Julia Wilson, creating a cushion. The quarter concluded with the Bulldogs leading 18-13.

The Zags seized momentum early in the second quarter with Ines Bettencourt's fast-break layup at 8:54, assisted by Turner, setting the tone for a strong offensive push. Whittaker further extended the lead with a three-pointer at 7:03, maintaining their advantage despite San Diego's attempts to close the gap. Turner capitalized on free throws to widen the margin, while Teryn Gardner's three-pointer with seven seconds left in the quarter solidified GU's lead. The quarter ended with the Bulldogs leading 38–28.

GU maintained control in the third quarter, highlighted by Smith's early jumper assisted by Turner at 9:27, extending their lead to 10 points. The Bulldogs managed to hold steady, thanks in part to Whittaker's key layup at 1:30, assisted by Smith. Gardner capped off the quarter with a fastbreak 3-pointer at 15 seconds, ensuring the Zags matched San Diego's scoring in the quarter. The third quarter concluded with both teams adding 13 points each, keeping Gonzaga ahead 51–41.

The Bulldogs maintained their lead in the fourth quarter with a steady performance at the free-throw line and effective defensive rebounds. Aokuso's jumper at 7:52 extended the advantage, while Whittaker contributed with a key block and several rebounds. Despite San Diego's attempts to close the gap, GU secured the game with clutch free throws from Turner and Bettencourt. The game concluded with a final score of 66-56 in favor of the Bulldogs.

In their next matchup, Gonzaga will travel to face LMU on Saturday, Feb. 14, at 2 p.m.

Gonzaga Top Performers  
Lauren Whittaker
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- 19 points
- 12 rebounds
- 3 steals

Zeryhia Aokuso
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- 12 points
- 5 field goals made

Allie Turner
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- 8 points
- 6/6 free throws made
- 4 assists

Sierra Lichtie
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- 2 steals
- 3 rebounds