Western Washington University women’s basketball defeated University of Alaska Fairbanks in a decisive 72-47 victory on Thursday, Jan. 15, 7 p.m. at WECU Court in the Carver Gym. Coming off the road in a 0-2 slump, the Vikings dominated on their home court, leading from start to finish in a win that marked head coach Carmen Dolfo’s 1,000th career game.
The Vikings came out on top in the first quarter, establishing a defensive rhythm that helped them gain an early eight point lead. This advantage never fizzled out for Western, who controlled a consistent lead throughout the game.
The Viking defense continued to add pressure in the second quarter, forcing seven turnovers against the Nanooks and allowing the Vikings to go into halftime leading by 18 points.
Senior starting forward Olivia Hodges was a key contributor on both ends of the court, adding 12 rebounds to her 22 point game. Western shot 61.3% from the field in the first half while holding Fairbanks to 34.6%, limiting scoring opportunities.
“We came off a rough road trip, and our defense was a priority in practice this week,” said Hodges. “This is a good win to put under our belt and give us confidence.”
Going into the third quarter, Fairbanks struggled to find rhythm offensively as the Vikings continued to lead by 23 points. The Nanooks attempted to gain the lead with top scorer Tamani Mancuso, who finished with a game high of 25 points; the Vikings kept their defence strong, shutting down the Nanooks.
“All week we were focused on playing team defense, helping each other, covering for each other, and just giving it all out on the floor,” said senior forward Aspen Garrison.
Garrison was also a key player with six assists, two blocks and 17 points by the end of the game, helping maintain the Vikings’ lead.
Despite efforts by the Nanooks to cut into the lead in the fourth quarter, the Vikings kept control of the game through strong defensive stops and efficient play. This sealed the win for Western, who led by over 30 points at the game’s end.
Sophomore center Vivienne Berrett helped the Vikings maintain the lead during the fourth quarter, shooting 6-8 from the field and scoring 14 points.
“I thought our team did a good job defensively,” said Dolfo. “They did a really good job of sharing the ball.”
The milestone of 1,000 career games for Dolfo was celebrated by players and staff, marking a significant moment in her career. Watching her team secure the win in front of a home crowd at Carver Gym, Dolfo reflected on her 35 seasons as the head coach for WWU's women's basketball team and the impact she made along the way.
“I've been lucky to coach a lot of wonderful women and work with great people, so I do feel blessed,” Dolfo said.
Maintaining a 5-0 record on their home court, the Vikings take on the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves on Saturday, Jan. 17, 5 p.m. at WECU Court in the Carver Gym.
Caitlin Grygorcewicz (she/her) is a Sports and Recreation reporter this winter quarter. She is in her second year, majoring in visual journalism, and is returning to The Front for a third time after previously serving as the Photo and Video editor. In her free time, you can catch her cleaning her camera, climbing rocks, and cooking good food.
You can reach her at caitlingrygorcewicz.thefront@gmail.com.
