SPOKANE, Wash. — Gonzaga University (17-7, 9-2 WCC) defeated Oregon State (17-7, 9-2 WCC), 67-37, at the McCarthey Athletic Center, capitalizing on 20 points off turnovers. This marked the lowest scoring game for OSU since they scored 35 points against Michigan State in Dec. 2012.
Lauren Whittaker recorded a double-double, scoring 15 points and collecting 12 rebounds, including a season-high total of 7 offensive rebounds. This performance continued her impressive streak, having scored at least 15 total points in 4 consecutive games. Inȇs Bettencourt contributed 15 points, making all five of her 3-pointers and added five assists, marking her second consecutive game with at least 5 assists.
Taylor Smith scored a season-high 12 points on 6-for-8 shooting and recorded two steals.
Jaiden Haile added 10 rebounds, including seven on the offensive end, while scoring eight points.
GU opened the first quarter with assertive shooting, highlighted by Bettencourt's three 3-pointers, contributing to a 19–13 lead. The team capitalized on Oregon State's seven turnovers, converting them into crucial points. The Bulldogs maintained control with efficient ball movement, recording six assists on seven baskets. The quarter ended with GU ahead 19–13.
In the second quarter, the Bulldogs took control with a pivotal sequence at 6:36, where Whittaker's two free throws were followed by a pair of free throws from
Allie Turner, extending their lead. Bettencourt contributed significantly with a steal and multiple assists, including one to
Teryn Gardner for a fastbreak 3-pointer at 3:21. GU's defense limited Oregon State's second chances and maintained their advantage, closing the quarter ahead 36–23.
The Zags surged ahead in the third quarter with a series of strategic plays, starting with Whittaker's jumper at 9:19.
Zeryhia Aokuso facilitated the offense, providing critical assists, including one to Smith for a fast-break layup at 6:45. Gonzaga maintained pressure on defense, forcing turnovers and converting them into points. By the end of the quarter, GU had extended their lead to 56–30.
GU secured a decisive victory over Oregon State in the fourth quarter by maintaining control throughout. Smith played a pivotal role, contributing a steal followed by a layup at 8:11, which extended the lead to 58–32. GU's defense was effective, forcing five turnovers and allowing only three baskets from Oregon State.
Julia Wilson capitalized with a jumper at 2:34, further solidifying the lead. The game ended with the Zags triumphing 67–37, with the team totaling at least 16 assists in 2 consecutive games. The Bulldogs also continued their streak of scoring at least 67 total points in 6 consecutive games
Looking ahead, GU will face off against Pacific on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m. The game will take place at the McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, Washington, and it will be the annual Pink Game for Gonzaga.
Gonzaga Top Performers
Ines Bettencourt
----------------------
- 15 points
- 5 3-pointers
- 5 assists
- 5 rebounds
Taylor Smith
----------------------
- 12 points
- 6/8 field goals
- 2 steals
- 5 rebounds
Jaiden Haile
----------------------
- 8 points
- 10 rebounds
Lauren Whittaker
----------------------
- 15 points
- 5/6 free throws made
- 12 rebounds
- 7 offensive rebounds