WALLA WALLA, Ore. --- The George Fox women's basketball season came to a conclusion on Thursday against the No. 6-ranked Whitman Blues. Though the game was close through the first three quarters, the home Blues outlasted the visitors as the Bruins fell in the first round of the Northwest Conference Tournament, 50-64.

How It Happened

The Bruins started off the game in a completely new offensive look, running many more post screens and cuts than usual. It was clear the Fox needed some time to adjust to their new scheme, though, as they shot just 20% in the quarter. Rachel Parks was able to score five points in the first period, but Fox trailed 7-17 at the end of one.

The second quarter was a complete role reversal. This time around, Fox suffocated the Blues offense, holding them to 18% shooting from the field. In the first half, Whitman failed to register a triple, shooting 0-11 in the first two quarters. Though they never took the lead in the first half, the Bruins managed to pry themselves within one point at halftime, trailing 25-26.

The Bruins exploded out of the halftime locker room energized and ready to go. Cassidy Posey hit a layup out of the break to give Fox their first lead of the game. And when Alyssa Wells buried a triple with 3:45 remaining in the quarter, the Bruins had stormed out to a four point lead thanks to a 9-0 run. While the lead would not last for the Bruins, Ella Roberts' shot in the closing seconds ensured that the game would enter the fourth tied at 38.

While the Bruins had been able to contain Whitman's potent offense through the first three quarters, they were not able to sustain their efforts through the fourth. Kaylie McCracken came alive for the Blues, scoring 12 of her 20 in the fourth, and Kaelan Shamseldin's two big treys boosted her team to victory. Whitman scored 26 points in the fourth quarter to come from behind and take the game, ending the Bruins' season with the 64-50 win to advance to the NWC Championship.

Top Performances

Roberts led the way for the Bruins with 15 points as well as pulling down five rebounds. Senior guard Rachel Parks, playing in her final game as a Bruin, recorded eight points and a team-high six boards. Posey chipped in six points in her last game for Fox as well.

Coach's Thoughts

Soon to come.

What It Means

The Bruins' season will conclude with a 12-14 record overall and an 8-8 mark against NWC foes in 2021-22.