NAMPA, Idaho - The Northwest Nazarene Women's basketball team opened up conference play on Saturday afternoon against Central Washington. Facing a tough match up the Nighthawks were unable to stave off the Wildcats falling, 0-0.
The Nighthawks move to 0-1 in conference play and 4-3 overall on the season.
The Wildcats came out strong in the opening quarter, putting up 9 quick points in the paint. Looking to spark the Nighthawks offense, Beaux Bruegman knocked down a deep three to bring the score to 9–5. CWU continued to build momentum at the rim, converting key layups as the quarter progressed.
Making her return from a preseason injury, Kendall Clark gave the Nighthawks a boost, scoring valuable points in the paint and at the free-throw line to keep NNU within reach. The Nighthawks ramped up their defensive intensity late in the quarter, applying a full-court press that forced nine Wildcat turnovers. The first quarter closed with NNU trailing by just two.
Central Washington made its push in the second quarter, breaking through the Nighthawks' defensive strategy with efficient shooting from beyond the arc. CWU went 9–15 from the field and an impressive 5–6 from three. Their lights-out shooting made it difficult for NNU to keep pace, and the Nighthawks headed to the locker room down 46–35.
As the second half got underway, both teams tightened up defensively. NNU forced eight turnovers while CWU countered with five of their own, and the Nighthawks added three steals. Despite the defensive effort, the Wildcats found just enough opportunities to maintain their advantage, taking a 62–43 lead into the final quarter.
The Nighthawks found a final spark in the fourth quarter, outscoring CWU 20–15. Despite the late push, the Wildcats refused to concede and secured the 77–63 victory.
Kendall Clark led her team with 14 points followed by Chloe Deharo also contributed 11. Kelly Garrity also contributed 5 rebounds and 2 assists.
The Nighthawks will have a break next weekend before they return to their home court for the GNAC-RMAC Crossover tournament hosted in the Johnson Sports Center. Their first game will be on Friday, December, 19th at 7:30 pm against Colorado Mesa.
