Colorado State Hands Gonzaga Women’s Basketball First Loss of the Season
In a thrilling matchup on their home turf, the Gonzaga women’s basketball team faced Colorado State, resulting in a tight contest that ended 70-66. This defeat marked not only the Zags’ inaugural loss of the season but also their first home-opening loss at the McCarthey Athletic Center.
Game Highlights
Freshman standout Lauren Whittaker led the Zags with a remarkable career-high of 29 points. With just 26 seconds left on the clock, she brought Gonzaga within two points by sinking a crucial free throw. However, Brooke Carlson from Colorado State secured the victory for her team with two successful free throws just 16 seconds later.
Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
The game began favorably for Gonzaga, as they established their largest lead of seven points (23-16) after the first quarter. Yet, the second quarter proved challenging; the Zags managed only 11 points while Colorado State scored 18, leading to a halftime tie at 34.
In the third quarter, Gonzaga rebounded strongly, netting 19 points while holding the Rams to 13, thus taking a 53-47 lead into the final frame. However, Colorado State regained momentum, delivering a powerful performance that included 23 points in the fourth quarter to clinch the game.
Player Contributions
Alongside Whittaker’s stellar performance, Zeryhia Aokuso contributed 13 points. Ines Bettencourt and Teryn Gardner added 8 and 6 points, respectively, but scoring was primarily concentrated among a few players.
Statistical Overview
- Gonzaga shooting: 44.8% from the field, 36.4% from three-point range
- Points allowed in the paint: 40
- Turnovers: 13, leading to 16 points for Colorado State
Colorado State exhibited a well-rounded offense with four starters reaching double figures, led by Kloe Froebe with 17 points and Hannah Ronsiek contributing 16 points.
Looking Ahead
The Zags, now holding a record of 2-1, aim to bounce back as they host a formidable opponent in Stanford, who remains undefeated at 3-0. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 2 p.m. and will be broadcast on SWX-TV and SWXLocalSports.com.
