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Portland stuns No. 14 Gonzaga in WCC Tournament Title Game
Kennedy Dickie’s 16-point performance propelled Portland to a shocking victory over No. 14 Gonzaga in the West Coast Conference Tournament title game, snapping the Bulldogs’ 24-game winning streak with a narrow 67-66 triumph on Tuesday. This marked the second consecutive year that Portland emerged victorious in the championship game against Gonzaga.
Significance of the Win
Portland’s triumph secured their seventh NCAA Tournament berth, coming just 13 days after suffering a significant defeat against Gonzaga in the regular-season finale where they were trounced 90-40. The question now looms over whether this defeat will impact Gonzaga’s chances of securing a top-four seed and the opportunity to host the tournament.
Emme Shearer’s clutch 3-pointer with 1:39 remaining in the game provided the Pilots with a crucial 67-64 lead. Despite late-game pressure from the Bulldogs, Portland managed to maintain their slim advantage after surviving turnovers and defensive challenges, ultimately sealing the victory with tenacious play on the court.
Impressive Performances
Maisie Burnham’s 15 points and three steals, combined with key contributions from Shearer and Lucy Cochrane, propelled third-seeded Portland to a hard-fought victory. WCC player of the year, Yvonne Ejim, led Gonzaga’s efforts with 17 points and 11 rebounds, supported by Eliza Hollingsworth’s 13-point performance and Brynna Maxwell’s consistent long-range shooting.
The closely contested matchup saw both teams exhibit strong shooting percentages, with Portland shooting an efficient 54% from the field, including 3-pointers, while Gonzaga struggled with a 37.1% overall shooting rate. This marked a significant departure from Gonzaga’s typically strong shooting performances, highlighting Portland’s resilient defensive effort.
Statistical Analysis
Despite trailing Gonzaga in the first half, Portland’s strategic adjustments enabled them to seize the lead in the final quarter, showcasing their mental fortitude and tactical prowess. Gonzaga’s uncharacteristically poor shooting performance, particularly from beyond the arc, proved pivotal in determining the outcome of the game.
Portland’s ability to disrupt Gonzaga’s offensive rhythm and capitalize on scoring opportunities ultimately proved decisive, showcasing their ability to thrive under pressure and deliver in high-stakes situations. The win against a formidable opponent like Gonzaga underscores Portland’s resilience and competitiveness at the highest level of collegiate basketball.
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