In a dazzling display of long-range shooting prowess, the Northern Arizona women’s basketball team electrified the Walkup Skydome, sinking a remarkable 15 three-pointers en route to a commanding 89-74 victory over Idaho State. The win not only showcased the team’s offensive firepower but also saw them match the program’s all-time record for made threes in a single game.
Led by the sharpshooting of guard Emily Rodabaugh, who drained five triples on her way to a stellar 21-point performance, the Lumberjacks put on a clinic from beyond the arc. Rodabaugh’s scoring prowess was complemented by the dynamic contributions of guard Olivia Moran, who added 18 points, and forward Saniyah Neverson and Sophie Glancey, who chipped in with 11 and 10 points, respectively.
The team’s scorching hot shooting from downtown, coupled with their unselfish ball movement, proved to be too much for Idaho State to handle. Northern Arizona shot a blistering 41% from three-point range, with their 37 attempts falling just shy of the record mark. Despite the temptation to launch even more shots from deep, the team remained disciplined and focused on executing their offensive game plan.
Head coach Loree Payne lauded her team’s ability to exploit the defensive schemes of Idaho State, recognizing the importance of moving the ball and finding open shooters in the face of a packed-in defense. The Lumberjacks’ offensive fluidity was matched by their defensive tenacity, as they forced 20 turnovers and held the Bengals to a respectable 49% shooting from the field.
Following a recent stretch of inconsistent performances, including a lackluster offensive showing against Eastern Washington, Northern Arizona relished the opportunity to rediscover their rhythm and confidence on the court. The resounding victory over Idaho State serves as a testament to the team’s resilience and ability to bounce back from adversity.
As they gear up for the challenges ahead, the Lumberjacks will look to build upon their impressive performance and continue their pursuit of success in the Big Sky Conference. With their potent offensive arsenal and suffocating defense, Northern Arizona stands poised to make a statement as they aim to make noise in the postseason.
