Bearcats chew up the Knights

SALEM, Ore. — Willamette defeated Warner Pacific, 64-48, at Cone Field House, overcoming a slow start with a dominant second quarter. The Bearcats turned a tight game into a decisive victory by forcing 20 turnovers, converting them into 21 points. The home team also controlled the boards with a 39-38 rebounding edge. Warner Pacific struggled from the free-throw line, shooting just 52.6%, which limited their comeback efforts.

Willamette opened the first quarter with a steady performance, establishing an early rhythm. After Warner Pacific's KJ Custer hit a quick 3-pointer, the Bearcats responded with key defensive stops, including three steals, to maintain pressure. Gabbie Wilson's three-pointer at 3:39 and two successful free throws by Daisy Boling-Schmidt at 0:57 highlighted the Bearcats' efficient scoring.

The Bearcats' defense limited Warner Pacific to just 2-for-14 shooting from the field while forcing seven turnovers. The home team capitalized on these opportunities, finishing the quarter with a 9-5 lead.

Willamette began the second quarter with effective defensive pressure, highlighted by Kaitlin Imai's steal and fast-break layup, establishing a lead early on. Wilson's assist facilitated a crucial three-pointer by Leia Mata, contributing to a 10–4 advantage in points from the paint. Riley Walden's scoring spree, including a layup and a three-pointer, expanded the Bearcats' lead.

The Bearcats maintained control through effective rebounding, securing 10 total boards and limiting Warner Pacific's second-chance opportunities. Boling-Schmidt's assist set up Wilson for a jumper, further extending the lead. As the quarter concluded, Mata's layup solidified the Bearcats' position, closing the quarter with a 30–19 advantage.

The Bearcats maintained their edge during the third quarter by initiating key plays that kept the momentum balanced. Wilson's layup at the 5:21 mark, followed by Walden's 3-pointer at 4:17, helped offset Warner Pacific's advances. Imai sealed the quarter with a critical jumper with 37 seconds left, contributing to keeping the advantage intact.

Despite Warner Pacific's efforts to close the gap with a series of successful free throws and a late jumper, the Bearcats' defense held firm, including a late steal by Walden. The quarter ended with the Bearcats leading 44–35, setting the stage for the final quarter.

The Bearcats started the fourth quarter with an early three-pointer by Mata, assisted by Walden, setting the pace for the home team. Imai contributed significantly with a steal and subsequent scoring, helping maintain momentum.

The Bearcats capitalized on defensive pressure, forcing multiple turnovers and securing rebounds, which led to key scoring opportunities. Imai's performance was pivotal, adding a three-pointer and a fast-break layup to extend the home team's advantage.

Despite Warner Pacific's attempts to close the gap, including a successful layup with a free throw by Riley Layton, the Bearcats' consistent scoring and defensive efforts allowed them to maintain control. The quarter concluded with Jordyn Reed's free throw, securing a 64–48 victory for Willamette.

Looking ahead, the Bearcats will face Portland St. on Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 3 p.m. As the away team, they will aim to secure a victory on the road.