The Utah State Eastern women's basketball team earned their first victory of the season during the Coca-Cola Classic in Twin Falls, Idaho, before splitting the non-conference tournament with a narrow loss to Dawson Community College. The Eagles recorded a 71-55 win over Treasure Valley Community College on Friday before falling 70-68 to the Buccaneers on Saturday.
Dominant Start Against TVCC
The Eagles opened the invitational on Friday with a decisive 71-55 victory over Treasure Valley Community College. During the first quarter, Eastern established an early advantage, scoring 27 points fueled by 14 combined points from Jessie Whinwray and Alyssa Whittaker. After entering the second quarter with a 27-14 lead, the Eagles extended their advantage with a 17-7 run, reaching a quarter-high 25-point lead over the Chukars. Eastern maintained their momentum to enter the halftime break with a 46-29 lead.
Defensive Control Secures Win
Jessie Whinwray led the scoring at the half with 11 points. A significant factor in the Eagles' early lead was a 64% shooting percentage from the three-point line. While the third quarter saw a low-scoring trend, Eastern's defense proved effective, holding Treasure Valley to only eight points on three made baskets. Lexie Kesler contributed five points during that period as the Eagles managed nine points total. By the start of the fourth quarter, Eastern held an 18-point lead and successfully controlled the final period to secure the win.
Rebounding Dominance
The victory featured standout individual performances, as Jessie Whinwray and Keira Hester each finished the game with 14 points. Alyssa Whittaker added 13 points to the Eagles' total. Eastern also dominated the boards, outbounding the Chukars 52-32. This included 21 offensive rebounds which resulted in 18 second-chance points for the Eagles.
Close Battle With Buccaneers
On Saturday, the Eagles faced the Dawson Community College Buccaneers in a much closer contest. Despite facing an early nine-point deficit, Eastern rallied in the first quarter to trail by only one point, 23-22, at the end of the period. The second period remained competitive as both defenses dictated the pace, leaving the teams separated by only two points when Eastern entered the halftime break trailing 37-35.
Late Defeat in Twin Falls
Eastern took control during the third quarter by outscoring the Buccaneers 23-17 to enter the final frame with a 58-54 lead. Jessie Whinwray continued her scoring streak, contributing 10 points in the third quarter alone and going 3-for-3 from the field. However, Dawson responded with a 6-0 run to open the fourth quarter, eventually leading to a 60-60 tie with five minutes remaining in the game. The Eagles were unable to produce decisive plays in the final stretch, ultimately losing the matchup 70-68.
Whinwray Leads Scoring
Whinwray finished the game as the leading scorer for the Eagles with 23 points, shooting 5-for-8 from the field. Ellah Oeser contributed 10 points and eight rebounds during the contest.
Upcoming Home Schedule
The Eagles will return home for their home opener on Friday, Nov. 13, against Western Nebraska Community College as part of the Eagle Classic. That matchup is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. The tournament will conclude with a game against Central Wyoming College on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 1:00 p.m.
