After leading early in the fourth quarter, the Southern Utah University women’s basketball team fell short against Fresno State University 67-59. With the loss, SUU falls to 0-3 on the season while FSU improves to 3-1.
First quarter
Fresno State got out to a very quick start, scoring 11 points in the first four minutes. The Bulldogs extended the lead to 21-8 but a late 7-0 run led by Sydney Gandy and Lexi Bull cut the lead to 21-15.
Second quarter
Mia Jacobs took over in the second quarter for Fresno State. The forward from Perth, Australia scored nine of Fresno State’s 15 points in the second quarter. However, a 12-3 run for Southern Utah kept the game close and at halftime the score was 36-29.
Third quarter
Southern Utah came out firing to start the third quarter, hitting four of their first five three-pointers in the quarter. Forward Jayden Brown was dominant from the perimeter, hitting two threes and another midrange jumper giving the Thunderbirds the 49-47 lead heading into the fourth.
Fourth quarter
Fresno State scored a quick five points to retake the lead, but a jumper by Ava Uhrich and two free-throws helped give SUU the lead again. FSU went on a 7-0 run over the next six minutes to take a 59-53 lead late.
A pair of threes from Samantha Johnston wasn’t enough as Jacobs iced the game with four free-throws, giving Fresno State the 67-59 win.
Key statistics
— Jacobs led all scorers with 26 points on 6/10 shooting.
— Gandy and Brown led the Thunderbirds with 13 points each.
— Southern Utah made a season-high 11 three-pointers
— Taija Sta. Maria led FSU with six rebounds and four assists.
What’s next?
Southern Utah will host the University of Idaho for their season opener on Saturday Nov. 16, at 2 p.m. This game can be streamed on ESPN+.
Author: Jack Paul
Photographer: Gannon Lovisa
Editor: SUU News Copy Editor
