Oregon State’s women’s basketball team had an impressive performance against Portland, winning 64-54 in a thrilling match at Gill Coliseum. The Beavers dominated the third quarter, scoring 24 points, including a remarkable 17-0 run. This win helps them secure a stronger position in the conference tournament, with just three games left to play.
Key Players and Performance
Tiara Bolden shined with a career-high 29 points, significantly boosting the Beavers’ efforts in the second half. She fueled the team’s comeback, scoring 14 points during that explosive third quarter. Coach Scott Rueck praised his team’s defense, which held Portland back even when shooting struggled early on.
The Beavers initially trailed 27-26 at halftime, but their defense came alive in the third quarter, forcing Portland into a long scoring drought. Their largest lead reached 16 points midway through the quarter, showcasing their dominance.
Even when Portland made a late push, narrowing the gap to 54-49, the Beavers responded effectively. Néné Sow played a crucial role down the stretch, scoring five of her seven points in the final minutes, helping to secure the victory.
Team Dynamics and Season Stats
Oregon State demonstrated strong teamwork, notching 15 assists on 26 field goals. Kennedie Shuler stood out with six assists, moving her into fifth place for single-season assists by a junior in Oregon State history. The team’s ball control was impressive; they recorded only ten turnovers against Portland’s aggressive press, a feat achieved by only ten other teams in the last five years.
Defensively, the Beavers were disciplined, limiting Portland to just six offensive rebounds throughout the game. Lara Alonso-Basurto was a standout on the boards, tying her career-high with 12 rebounds.
Looking Ahead
The Beavers are gearing up to face Washington State next. With every game impacting their conference standings, the team’s focus remains on refining their play and winning the remaining matches. The performance against Portland demonstrates Oregon State’s potential, highlighting both individual talents and team unity.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts will be watching closely. Historical trends suggest that teams with strong defensive capabilities often perform well in tournament settings. This gives the Beavers an edge as they strive for a top seed in the upcoming WCC Basketball Championship.
For more insights on college basketball trends and team strategies, you can visit NCAA.com.
