By Collin Smoll

NEWBERG, Ore. --- The George Fox women's basketball team played the Linfield Wildcats this week, defeating them 51-68 in their home opener.

How it Happened

The Wildcats took the first substantial lead with two 3-point jump shots, but that lead soon vanished under the Bruins' consistent pressure and two-point field goals. After a three-point shootout led to the Bruins taking a nine-point lead, the quarter ended 10-19 in favor of George Fox.

The Bruins kept things moving with an excellent defense and repeated jumpers, ending the 2nd quarter up 20-39 after matching the Wildcats in three-point jump shots.

The Bruins' momentum carried cleanly into the second half, scoring 10 points right off the top. That advantage soon turned into the widest lead in the game, with the quarter ending 34-58 with a 24-point difference.

The Wildcats stepped up their game in the 4th quarter and the Bruins began to coast as Linfield closed the gap over the course of the quarter. Despite the Wildcats halving the Bruins' lead with 17 points, the Bruins prevailed and won the game 51-68.

Top Performers

Jenna Lacey was 8-for-13 from the field, scoring 16 points for the Bruins. Mackenzie Lewis took down 10 rebounds, and Kaylee Bishop scored two of the team's three-pointers.

What it Means

The Bruins take their first victory of the season and move up to 1-1 overall and in conference play. The Wildcats start their 2021 season at 0-1.

What Happens Next

The Bruins are headed to Linfield to face the Wildcats again on Saturday, March 20, to finish the weekend back-to-back.