Nampa, ID – The Northwest Nazarene women's basketball team continued their strong home performance with a 80-64 victory over Alaska Anchorage on Saturday, January 31st.
The win improves the Nighthawks to 13–6 overall and 8–3 in conference play.
The Nighthawks opened the first quarter up with energy and never looked back, building an early lead against Alaska Anchorage. The Nighthawks' offense got rolling in the first few minutes, with Sadi Clemons and Trinidie Nichols hitting timely three-pointers and Kendall Clark contributing a driving layup to get NNU on the board. Early defensive stops and a pair of steals helped Nighthawks maintain control, forcing turnovers and creating transition opportunities.
Despite Alaska Anchorage's attempts to respond, including a few three-point tries from Kimberly Carrada and Lillee Duffin, NNU's offense remained consistent and efficient. The Nighthawks balanced scoring across several players while keeping the pressure on defensively.
By the second quarter, NNU led 26-13, with Clemons starting the frame strong, scoring back-to-back baskets in the paint. Beaux Bruegman added key points, and Allie Hueckman knocked down a three-pointer, extending the lead. Anchorage tried to chip away, narrowing the gap to 10 points, but NNU's defense held firm. At halftime, the Nighthawks led 38-28.
In the third quarter, NNU looked to put the game out of reach. Hueckman, Clark, and Nichols were active in the paint, adding crucial baskets. Anchorage mounted a small offensive surge to cut the lead to nine, but late threes from Bruegman and Nichols gave NNU a comfortable 62-46 lead heading into the final quarter.
The Nighthawks carried their momentum into the fourth quarter, with Nichols sinking another three to keep the offense moving. Both teams struggled to convert in the closing minutes, but NNU's consistent defense prevented a Seawolves comeback, securing the 80-64 victory.
Trinidie Nichols led the Nighthawks with 19 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals, while Sadi Clemons contributed 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists.
After a strong showing at home, the Nighthawks will hit the road next week to face Simon Fraser in Burnaby on Thursday, February 5th. Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m. Pacific in the West Gym.
