KIRKLAND, Wash. – Northwest University used a balanced scoring attack and efficient shooting night to secure a 102-60 home win over Walla Walla University on Friday.
After leading 24-22 at the end of the first quarter, Northwest took control in the second, outscoring Walla Walla 25-8 to build a 49-30 halftime advantage. The Eagles continued to extend the margin in the third quarter behind strong shooting from beyond the arc and a 28-point frame, taking a 77-46 lead into the final period. Northwest closed the game with 25 fourth-quarter points to seal the 42-point victory.
Northwest shot 56.7 percent from the field and 45.9 percent from three-point range while holding Walla Walla to 30.0 percent shooting. The Eagles also held a 47-31 rebounding advantage and finished with 22 assists on 38 made field goals.
Three Eagles led the scoring effort. Hailey Monte had 23 points, seven-of-seven from three-point range, and four rebounds. Ella Whitaker had 16 points with two three-pointers, and three assists. Ellie Bost had 13 points, also three assists, and three rebounds.
Monte provided a major spark from deep, knocking down seven three-pointers, including multiple makes in both the third and fourth quarters to push the lead past 30. Jersey McGehee also added 11 points, while the Northwest bench contributed 47 points in the win.
Defensively, Northwest limited second-half opportunities and forced 15 Walla Walla turnovers, converting those into 16 points. The Eagles also scored 32 points in the paint and controlled the glass throughout the contest.
"A great day for our young ladies to really show how far we have come this season," said the Eagles' head coach Randy Edens. "So proud of how we came out, especially at an awkward time for games for us and to be ready from the tip. We certainly shot it really well and happened to break our school record for 3s made in a game today with 17."
"Hailey Monte had her breakout game for us, and while she certainly shot it well from a distance, we have known she has been capable all along. It was just a matter of time."
"I was also impressed with our attention to detail on the defensive end, and to be able to get everyone playing some meaningful minutes is always a good thing for the Eagles. Looking forward to tomorrow and LC State."
Northwest improves its momentum at home and will look to carry the energy forward into its next home conference matchup tomorrow.
