Box Score ST. GEORGE, Utah – Benissa Bulaya scored 18 points and three other Nanooks scored in double figures as the Alaska women's basketball earned their fifth straight win to start the season, in a 81-77 victory over Chico State in the Dixie Thanksgiving Classic.
"This was a great win for us, I'm so proud of the team," exclaimed head coach Cody Bench. "We did an outstanding job holding off a strong Chico State comeback. They are a really good team but we played our best defense of the season."
Alaska led by as many as 22 points in the second half, as they took a 58-36 lead five minutes into the final period, but the Wildcats battled back to within three points late in the game. Fortunately, the Nanooks showed poise in the end as they were able to hold on for a four point victory.
In addition to her 18 points, Bulaya also contributed a team-high four assits and had three rebounds and a steal. Jordan Wilson had 13 points for the Nanooks while also contributing three boards and three assists. Arinesha Smith had twelve points and three assists and Stephanie Toumson had ten points and eight boards. Kailee Skjold was impressive at the glass as she hauled in a game and career-high 14 rebounds.
Alaska now returns home for the Mt. McKinley Bank North Star Invitational where it will take on Saginaw Valley State, Augustana College and Colorado Christian next weekend.
