Northern Colorado women’s basketball defeats Northern Arizona for sixth conference win

Kristen Mattio, Head Coach at Northern Colorado Bears Women's Basketball
Kristen Mattio, Head Coach at Northern Colorado Bears Women's Basketball
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Northern Colorado women’s basketball secured a 72–59 victory over Northern Arizona on Saturday at Bank of Colorado Arena, marking their sixth win in Big Sky Conference play this season.

Heather Baymon led the Bears with 17 points, shooting 6-of-16 from the field. Neenah George and Aniah Hall each contributed 12 points, while Gabi Fields added 10 to support a balanced offensive effort.

The game began with both teams playing at a fast pace and exchanging baskets. Physical defense resulted in several trips to the free-throw line for both sides. At the first media timeout, Northern Colorado held a narrow lead of 9–6 and finished the first quarter ahead by two points, 17–15.

In the second quarter, Northern Arizona’s zone defense challenged UNC’s offense. However, Northern Colorado responded by focusing on rebounding and creating second-chance scoring opportunities. The score was tied at 19 before Baymon made two three-pointers to give her team some separation. Additional inside plays by Aniah Hall and Tatum West helped UNC take a 34–30 lead into halftime.

After halftime, Julia Riley hit two early three-pointers for Northern Colorado in the third quarter. Both teams continued to trade baskets during this period, but timely scores and defensive stops allowed UNC to maintain its advantage going into the final quarter with a score of 51–44.

In the fourth quarter, UNC executed well offensively with contributions from Neenah George and Gabi Fields. The Bears controlled possession late in the game and limited opportunities for Northern Arizona, ultimately closing out the contest for a double-digit win.

Northern Colorado will continue its home stretch on Thursday, January 29 against Idaho with tip-off scheduled for noon.

Fans can follow updates about Northern Colorado women’s basketball through their official website uncbears.com as well as on social media platforms including X (@UNC_BearsWBB), Instagram (@UNC_BearsWBB), and Facebook (/UNCBearsWBB).



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