CALDWELL, Idaho – Eastern Oregon Women’s Basketball continues their perfect start to the season with a 66-53 victory over Northern New Mexico College Friday afternoon at the Caldwell Classic.
The game was close early, with the Mounties holding a slim 13-11 lead after the first quarter. However, EOU extended their advantage to 37-24 before the half. Despite Northern New Mexico College’s late push in the fourth quarter, outscoring Eastern 18-8, the Mounties maintained control to secure the win.
Haylee Johnson led the charge, finishing with 14 points, 7 rebounds, and a steal. Johnson’s aggressive play earned her 10 fouls drawn, and she capitalized by sinking 7 from the free throw line, helping EOU to build and sustain their lead. The junior also contributed three field goals and a three-pointer, displaying skills on both ends of the court.
Kelsie Seigner had another standout performance, following Johnson closely with 12 points, while grabbing 4 rebounds. Seigner was well-rounded, also contributing 2 blocks, a steal, and an assist, while shooting an efficient 3-3 from the line. Her versatility and defensive presence were crucial as EOU stretched their lead over NNMC.
Kali Kast also played a key role on defense, collecting 2 blocks, 1 steal, and 3 rebounds to go along with her 6 points. Kast’s defensive efforts in the paint helped to limit the Eagles scoring while adding to the Mounties defensive presence.
Eastern Oregon outpaced Northern New Mexico College in key areas, including bench production, contributing 31 points compared to NNMC’s 10 from reserves. Though the Eagles outperformed EOU 36-21 in the paint, the Mountie’s defensive efforts limited second-chance and fast-break opportunities while capitalizing on turnovers, adding 16 points off the Eagle’s mistakes. Eastern Oregon shot 33.8% from the field and 23.3% from beyond the arc but excelled at the free-throw line, finishing at 78.9%, compared to NNMC’s 6.3% on threes and 50% on free throws.
In the end, Eastern’s well-rounded effort and strong bench play allowed them to push past the Eagles and extend their win streak to 5-0. The Mountaineers will look ahead to their next matchup tomorrow, November 22nd, against the Master’s University (Calif.) on the second day of the Caldwell Classic. Tip-off is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. MT.