Northern Colorado secured a 62–55 win over Sacramento State on Thursday at Hornet Pavilion, with a strong performance in the third quarter making the difference. Heather Baymon led Northern Colorado in scoring, coming off the bench to contribute 20 points and hitting five out of nine attempts from three-point range.
The teams were tied at halftime with a score of 32 each. After the break, Northern Colorado took control by starting the third quarter with a scoring run and ultimately outscoring Sacramento State 22–12 in that period. The Bears made all three of their three-point shots in the third quarter and converted seven out of eight free throws, helping them build their biggest lead of the game.
Tatum West recorded her sixth double-double this season with 10 points and 12 rebounds. She also added three steals and played an important role in several defensive plays during the key stretch in the third quarter. Gabi Fields contributed eight points and four assists, while Julia Riley scored six points on two-of-three shooting, making both her three-point attempts. Neenah George added seven points and three assists as well.
Northern Colorado forced Sacramento State into 18 turnovers and turned those into 24 points. They also won the rebounding battle by a margin of 38–27. The Bears’ bench provided significant support, accounting for 28 of the team’s total points.
Sacramento State tried to rally late in the fourth quarter, but Northern Colorado maintained composure, securing key free throws and defensive rebounds to close out their road victory.
Northern Colorado’s next game will be against Portland State on Saturday, February 14 at 3 p.m. MT.
Fans can follow updates about Northern Colorado’s women’s basketball team through their official website at uncbears.com or on social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook under @UNC_BearsWBB or /UNCBearsWBB.
