With both teams searching for their first win in conference play, the Southern Utah University women’s basketball team hosted Seattle University on Saturday, Jan. 18. in the America First Event Center. Southern Utah battled strong and came out on top 61-57.
With the win, Southern Utah improves to 3-14 on the year and 1-3 in the Western Athletic Conference, while Seattle U falls to 3-14 and 0-4 in conference play.
First quarter
Southern Utah started hot with three-pointers from Samantha Johnston and Ava Uhrich. The Redhawks responded quickly with two threes of their own from Julianna Walker and Tamia Stricklin, tying the game at nine.
Following that, an 11-6 run gave Seattle the 20-16 lead after one.
Second quarter
Neither team shot the ball well in the second quarter, leading to a low-scoring period. Seattle U shot just 3/17 from the field and 0/9 from three.
Although SUU shot 0/3 from behind the arc, SUU cut the lead to one entering the half 29-28.
Third quarter
The Thunderbirds opened the second half on a 12-3 run over the first seven minutes of play to hold a 40-32 lead. Over the last three minutes of play in the third, the Redhawks responded with a 10-3 run of their own.
A three-pointer from Sophie Benharougha shrank SUU’s lead to just one point entering the fourth.
Fourth quarter
Entering the last two minutes of play, Southern Utah held a 55-50. A jumper from Sheridan Liggett cut the lead to two. SUU’s Sydney Gandy was big down the stretch, hitting six straight free throws to secure the 61-57 win for SUU.
Key Statistics
— Uhrich led all players with 15 points.
— Lexi Bull and Ashley Banks both recorded two blocks.
— Stricklin went 3/8 from three, leading all players.
What’s next?
Southern Utah will travel to take on Grand Canyon University on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m. This game can be streamed on ESPN+.
Author: Jack Paul
Photographer: SUU Athletics
Editor: Chevy Blackburn
