By Robert McKinney, Athletics Communications Director, (503) 370-6110

SALEM, ORE. -- Whitman College outscored Willamette University by 15 points in the second half to pull away from a 31-29 halftime lead and defeat the Bearcats, 69-52, in the Northwest Conference opener for both teams. Whitman improved to 7-3 on the season (1-0 NWC), while Willamette fell to 2-8 overall (0-1 NWC).

The Missionaries held just a two-point advantage, 36-34, with 15:24 remaining, following a jumper by WU's Vic Swigart (Jr., Newport Beach, CA/Newport Harbor HS). Whitman scored the next seven points to open an 18-2 run and take a 54-36 lead at the 9:43 mark.

Willamette's top scorer was senior guard Laura Payne (Sammamish, WA/Skyline HS), who tallied 14 points. Jenny Fillion (Jr., G, Silverton, OR/Silverton HS/Linn-Benton CC) added 10 points, while Molly Fillion (Jr., G, Silverton, OR/Silverton HS/Linn-Benton CC) earned nine points and a game-high 10 rebounds.

Whitman placed four players in double figures. Emily Shubin, Kelsey Krumdieck and Michelle Krall each tallied 11 points for the Missionaries. Hilary White contributed 10 points. Shubin and Rebecca Sexton each hauled down nine rebounds. Kristina Francis added eight boards, helping Whitman outrebounded Willamette, 46-43.

The Bearcats remain at home to take on Whitworth University on Saturday, Jan. 5. Game time is scheduled for 4 p.m. (PST) at Cone Field House.