Eagles Edged in Overtime in California
ANGWIN, Calif. - Northwest U's Emily Drivstuen's 26 points weren't quite enough as Pacific Union College squeezed out a one point, 77-76, overtime victory this afternoon in Angwin, Calif., in front of a packed house.
Northwest headed up the mountains above the Napa Valley in northern California to take on the Pioneers in their arena referred to as the Covered Wagon because of its odd shape.
The Eagles held onto a 1-point lead at the half, 34-33, only to see Pacific Union outscore them by one, 36-35, to tie the game at the end of regulation. In the overtime period, Pacific Union outscored NU 8-7 to earn the hard fought victory.
In addition to Drivstuen's 26 points, the Eagles (1-1) got 17 points and 9 rebounds from junior newcomer Carol Howard. Sophomore guard Domi Mendezona scored 10 points and had 5 assists and Mari Gonzalez added 9 points and 6 rebounds for the Eagles who managed only 36% shooting for the game.
Pacific Union (1-0) was led by Alejandra Gallardo's 16 points while teammate Lara Canders scored a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. PUC shot 42% from 2-point range and 43% from beyond the 3-point arc.
"Today was a tough road game with a packed and loud gym," commented Lori Napier, Eagle head coach. "These close ones are a good learning experience for the season, though."
Northwest U. now moves north to Redding, Calif., where they will face Simpson University on Saturday night at 7 p.m. before returning to Kirkland.