SPOKANE, Wash. — Gonzaga University (18-7, 10-2 WCC) defeated the University of the Pacific (9-14, 4-8 WCC), 72-44, at McCarthey Athletic Center, securing a dominant win with a 52-35 rebounding advantage. The Bulldogs outscored Pacific 46-22 in the paint, highlighting their control of the interior game.

Jaiden Haile scored 15 points and collected 10 rebounds. Lauren Whittaker also tallied 15 points and added seven rebounds, continuing her impressive form by recording at least 15 total points in five consecutive games. Whittaker also made history again this season by breaking the freshman record for most points in a single season, surpassing Tammy Tibbles' 475 points from 1985. Allie Turner finished with 12 points, including two 3-pointers, and recorded three assists. Ines Bettencourt contributed with five assists and two steals.

Gonzaga opened the first quarter with a quick start, taking an early 4–0 lead with layups from Whittaker and an assist from Taylor Smith. GU's defense was solid, with Smith contributing two steals, helping maintain momentum. GU finished the first quarter leading 16–10.

The Zags took control of the second quarter with a decisive series of plays, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Paige Lofing at 6:02, extending their lead. Haile contributed significantly with a series of layups and free throws, bolstered by assists from her teammates, maintaining GU's momentum. Pacific struggled to respond, managing only eight points in the quarter. The Bulldogs' defense forced seven turnovers, adding to their advantage. The quarter ended with the Bulldogs ahead 37-18.

Gonzaga solidified their control with a pivotal stretch in the third quarter, outscoring Pacific 21–13. Turner ignited the momentum with a layup at 9:27 and followed with a 3-pointer at 6:48, showcasing her scoring ability. Whittaker punctuated the quarter with a buzzer-beating scoe, assisted by Bettencourt, extending the lead. The Bulldogs' defense was effective, limiting Pacific's second-chance opportunities and winning the paint battle 14–6. 

The Bulldogs maintained their lead in the fourth quarter, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities with 12 points in the paint. Whittaker's layup at 7:02, followed by a free throw, extended their advantage. Despite Pacific's brief momentum with a three-pointer by Sydney Ward at 3:45, the Bulldogs' defensive effort, highlighted by Smith's steal at 6:05, limited Pacific's scoring chances. The game concluded with Gonzaga securing a 72-44 victory.

Looking ahead, GU will travel to face San Diego on Thursday, Feb. 12. The game will take place in San Diego, California, with tipoff set for 6 p.m. PT.

Gonzaga Top Performers
Allie Turner  
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- 12 points  
- 2 3-pointers  
- 3 assists  

Jaiden Haile  
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- 15 points  
- 5/7 free throws made  
- 10 rebounds  

Lauren Whittaker  
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- 15 points  
- 7 rebounds  
- 1 block  

Ines Bettencourt  
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- 5 assists  
- 2 steals  

Taylor Smith  
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- 4 steals  
- 4 assists