The Library Media — Sports · Sports Desk
Washington State Rallies in Fourth Quarter to Edge Southern Utah
By Megan McCarthy
PULLMAN, Washington — Washington State saved its best stretch for the final quarter, turning a three-point deficit into a 72-69 victory over Southern Utah at Beasley Coliseum.
The Cougars trailed 46-43 entering the fourth quarter but scored 29 points in the final period to finish with 48 in the second half. Washington State had managed just 24 points before halftime. The result moved the Cougars to 2-2, matching Southern Utah’s 2-2 record.
Eleonora Villa led Washington State with 23 points, shooting 8-of-17 from the field and making all five of her free throws. Mackenzie Chatfield added 18 points, 10 rebounds, three steals and three assists. Charlotte Abraham contributed 11 points.
Southern Utah’s Ava Uhrich led the Thunderbirds with 19 points and 11 rebounds, recording her second double-double of the season.
The game turned as Southern Utah’s lead reached 60-53. Washington State answered through Alex Covill, who scored three baskets inside, and Villa, who connected from three-point range with 2:38 remaining to tie the game at 60.
Covill then made a free throw and assisted on Villa’s go-ahead three-pointer with 1:12 left. Washington State closed out the three-point win at the free-throw line, finishing 21-of-25 from the stripe.
The fourth-quarter production was decisive. Washington State scored 29 points in the period after entering it trailing by three, overcoming Southern Utah’s advantage and holding on through the final stretch.
The game featured nearly 50 fouls called, according to Southern Utah Athletics. Washington State’s 21 made free throws helped the Cougars convert their opportunities in a close finish.
Villa’s late scoring run was central to the turnaround. She scored eight consecutive Washington State points late in the fourth quarter, helping shift the game after the Cougars had spent much of the second half chasing the lead.
Washington State left Beasley Coliseum with a three-point victory and an even record. Southern Utah also moved to 2-2 after the narrow defeat.
Megan McCarthy
Women’s College Basketball, The Library Media
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