STOCKTON, Calif. — Gonzaga University (21-8, 13-3 WCC) defeated the University of the Pacific (11-16, 6-10 WCC), 85-70, at the Alex G. Spanos Center. The Bulldogs capitalized on 22 points off turnovers to secure the victory.
Ines Bettencourt scored 13 points while recording seven assists and five steals, leading the team in both categories.
Lauren Whittaker finished with 20 points and added 11 rebounds, marking her 15th double-double of the season.
Allie Turner contributed 12 points and grabbed two steals, adding to the defensive effort.
Jaiden Haile added 10 points and secured five rebounds, helping to control the boards.
Gonzaga opened strong with a 5–0 run, highlighted by
Allie Turner's fast-break 3-pointer at 7:30, which set the tone for the quarter. GU's aggressive play in the paint was evident, as it outscored Pacific 10–4. Bettencourt was pivotal, contributing both a layup and a defensive rebound in the closing seconds. The quarter ended with the Zags holding a narrow 20–19 lead over Pacific.
The Bulldogs seized control in the second quarter with a pivotal 12-point run, highlighted by a
Zeryhia Aokuso 3-pointer at the 2:27 mark.
Julia Wilson's defensive efforts contributed significantly, as she secured multiple key rebounds and added a layup, helping Gonzaga establish a lead. Pacific managed a brief tie with a fastbreak 3-pointer from Sydney Ward at 2:55, but GU regained momentum with
Sierra Lichtie and Bettencourt converting fastbreak opportunities. The quarter concluded with Gonzaga leading 40–33.
GU extended its lead with a decisive 9–0 run early in the third quarter, highlighted by Bettencourt's layup at 8:12, pushing the score to 45–35. Whittaker contributed significantly, scoring a layup with a free throw to follow, enhancing the momentum. The Bulldogs also capitalized on Pacific's turnovers, converting them into points while maintaining pressure on defense with four steals. The quarter ended with Gonzaga leading 66–50.
The Zags maintained their lead in the fourth quarter with efficient shooting, converting six of nine field goal attempts. Wilson's 3-pointer at 7:31, assisted by Bettencourt, helped solidify Gonzaga's control. The Bulldogs' defense held Pacific to limited second-chance opportunities, ensuring a steady scoring pace from Gonzaga. The game concluded with Gonzaga securing an 85-70 victory.
Looking ahead, GU will host Saint Mary's on Thursday, Feb. 25 at the McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, Washington.
Gonzaga Top Performers
Ines Bettencourt
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- 13 points
- 7 assists
- 5 steals
Lauren Whittaker
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- 20 points
- 11 rebounds
- 8/11 free throws made
Allie Turner
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- 12 points
- 2 steals
Jaiden Haile
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- 10 points
- 5 rebounds