The Utah Valley women’s basketball team opened its season with an 85-32 victory over Park University-Gilbert on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, inside the UCCU Center. The Wolverines utilized a stifling defense to secure the win, recording 34 steals and forcing 43 turnovers, which marked the second-most steals in program history.
Elizabeth Gentry led the Wolverines with 14 points and eight rebounds. Five players scored in double figures, including Lauren Johnson with 12 points, Naia Tanuvasa with 11, and Anna Shreeve and Tabi Clark with 10 points each.
Gracie Johnson recorded 12 rebounds in 13 minutes of play, while Gabi Moultrie made two 3-pointers. Olivia Stephens, making her collegiate debut, contributed eight points and four assists. Lauren Johnson and Clark were among eight players making their UVU debuts.
Utah Valley used defensive pressure to ignite a 13-0 run early in the first quarter, building a 13-2 lead by the first media timeout. The Wolverines held Park-Gilbert to 3-of-16 shooting in the opening period.
UVU expanded their lead with a 10-0 run at the start of the second quarter. In the third quarter, an 8-0 run extended the lead to 61-22. The Wolverines outscored Park-Gilbert 20-4 in the final frame to finalize the 53-point victory. Park (2-5) finished the night with 21 percent shooting.
UVU head coach Dan Nielson stated that it was good to get the first game under the team's belt and noted that the team showed positive glimpses. He added that the team will focus on playing more consistently to prepare for their upcoming matchup.
The Wolverines are scheduled to host Santa Clara on Saturday, Nov. 7, at the UCCU Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. MT and will air on ESPN+. Utah Valley will then have a week off before hosting Nevada on Saturday, Nov. 14.
