Box Score FAIRBANKS – The Alaska women's basketball team dropped its third straight Great Northwest Athletic Conference game, in a 75-64 loss to Western Washington.
With the loss, the Nanooks fall to 12-7 overall and 4-5 in the GNAC while the Vikings increased their winning percentage and are now 12-6 overall and 6-3 in the conference.
"Western Washington is a really good team and I thought we hung in there with them for most of the game," Coach Cody Bench said of the overall play. "We held them within about six points in the second half, but unfortunately, they went on a 9-0 run late."
Benissa Bulaya was crucial for the Nanooks tonight, contributing 17 points total. The senior went 6-14 from the field and 5-6 in free-throws while she also dished out three assists. In three of the last five contests, Bulaya has put up over 17 points.
Following Bulaya in points was Stephanie Toumson, who totaled 15 points and had a career-high 14 rebounds. Also contributing for the Nanooks was Kaillee Skjold, Brianna Kirk and Cassi Willams, who each had nine points.
"Cassi Williams was hitting outside shots, Benissa's ability to drive to the bucket and Stephanie with a double-double…those are really big things for our program and those individuals. It proves to me that they can get the job done with certain things," Coach Bench added. "Kids are stepping into different roles they aren't exactly used to. I think if we cut down in turnovers, we will be just fine."
Western Washington had four players who totaled over 12 points each. Jenni White had 15, while Taylor Peacocke followed with 13. The Vikings went 28-61 from the field, 16-19 in free-throws and had 10 steals on the Nanooks.
"Our kids showed a lot of effort tonight. They did not quit, they did not give up. Unfortunately, we just couldn't pull out the win," Coach Bench concluded.
The Nanooks continue GNAC play this upcoming week on the road, first taking on Northwest Nazarene Thursday, January 29, then taking on Central Washington Saturday, January 31.
