The Idaho women’s basketball team fell to Northern Arizona, losing 65-53. Their inconsistent offense was no match for NAU’s smothering defense. The Lumberjacks’ Sophie Glancey, a sophomore forward from Boise, dominated the game with 23 points and nine rebounds.
The Vandals played well defensively, causing 17 turnovers. They came into this game with the 31st-ranked defense in the nation. Amalie Langer pestered the Lumberjacks throughout the game, ending with five steals. No blocks were recorded for Idaho.
Despite a concentrated defensive effort, Idaho was unable to find their rhythm on the other side of the ball. They shot 26% from the field during the first half and just 18% from behind the arc. Meanwhile, Northern Arizona made 56% of their field goals and only felt the need to shoot two 3-pointers in the half. Three Vandal players, Asha Phillips, Kennedy Johnson and Aspen Caldwell, finished the game with eight points. Because of their shooting, the Lumberjacks were able to outrebound the Vandals 40-23.
Idaho’s best offensive performance came in the third quarter, where they tied with NAU for 18 points. However, their better start to the second half was not enough to push them past the Lumberjacks. NAU led UI the entire way, with their largest lead of 16 coming in the second quarter. Idaho was able to close the gap to nine points in the third quarter, but a couple well-timed baskets from NAU senior guard Emily Rodabaugh shifted the momentum back to the Lumberjacks. Though the Vandals outscored their opponent in the fourth quarter, it was too little, too late.
Northern Arizona’s offense was unstoppable. They put the game away halfway through the fourth quarter by converting an and-one on back-to-back possessions. Their catalyst was sophomore forward Sophie Glancey. She recorded 23 points and nine rebounds on 10-of-12 shooting. Glancey scored 24 points in her previous game against Sacramento State.
Tonight’s game marked Idaho’s second road loss and fourth loss in a row. They were left 2-4 in conference play. Northern Arizona moved to 5-1, second behind Eastern Washington’s 6-0. The Vandals will travel to Greeley to play Northern Colorado on Saturday, Jan. 27 at 1 p.m. while the Lumberjacks continue their homestand against Eastern Washington.
Willie Gibbs can be reached at [email protected]