PORTLAND, Ore. — Northwest University earned a 62-55 conference road victory over Warner Pacific University on Saturday evening, closing the game on a strong final stretch to secure the win and accomplish two major season goals.

Northwest led 33-28 at halftime and extended its advantage in the third quarter, pushing the lead to as many as nine following a layup by Ellie Bost at the 4:22 mark. Warner Pacific responded in the fourth and tied the game at 55-55 with 39 seconds remaining. The Eagles answered immediately, as Ellie DeWaard knocked down a three-pointer with 21 seconds left to give Northwest a 58-55 lead. DeWaard then went 4-for-5 at the free throw line in the final seconds to seal the 62-55 result.

Kaleah Medeiros led Northwest with 16 points, including key baskets in the second half. She added eight rebounds and connected on three three-pointers. Taimane Faleafine-Auwae finished with 12 points and was active defensively, recording multiple steals and rebounds while helping control the paint. Bost added 11 points and two rebounds. Jersey McGehee contributed nine points and three assists, while DeWaard scored seven, including the go-ahead three.

Northwest shot 41.2 percent from the field and 36.0 percent from three-point range while forcing 23 Warner Pacific turnovers.

"Such a great win for our young ladies," said the Head Coach Randy Edens. "Pumped to be able to get to two big goals for them—double digit wins and a playoff spot. We had big stretches defensively and rebounded much better in the second half. And down the stretch we were able to come up with some big stops and hit clutch free throws. Looking forward to tackling the playoffs with our young roster."

The Eagles improved their conference standing with the road win, showing composure in the final minute by converting key free throws and defensive stops to secure both the victory and a postseason berth.

More news on the postseason tournament will be announced soon.