CORVALLIS — Oregon State demonstrated their prowess in first-round NCAA women’s basketball tournament games by rolling to victory after a slow start against Eastern Washington. The No.3 seeds unleashed a remarkable comeback, overcoming an eight-point deficit in the first quarter and ultimately dominating their opponents with a final score of 73-51.
It’s worth noting that historically, No. 3 seeds have been unbeatable in first-round matchups against No. 14 seeds since the NCAA expanded to a 64-team field in 1994. The Beavers’ performance only reinforced this trend, as they maintained a double-digit lead throughout the second half.
Oregon State’s victory sets up a second-round showdown against Nebraska, scheduled to take place on Sunday at 1 p.m. in Gill Coliseum, with television coverage provided by ESPN. The Cornhuskers secured their spot in the second round by narrowly defeating Texas A&M in a thrilling 61-59 contest.
However, the Beavers’ triumph was shadowed by concern for Raegan Beers, who suffered an ankle injury and had to leave the game during the third quarter. Despite her absence, Oregon State showcased their depth and resilience, with Dominika Paurova contributing 17 points and Timea Gardiner adding 12. The team’s shooting accuracy was impressive, hitting 55% of their shots and out-rebounding Eastern Washington 45-26.
Under the guidance of coach Scott Rueck, Oregon State maintained their undefeated record in first-round NCAA Tournament games, improving to 8-0. This impressive statistic speaks to the team’s consistent performance and their ability to navigate the pressures of tournament play.
In terms of attendance, the exact numbers for Friday’s doubleheader had not been announced at the time of writing, but it is expected to set a new Gill Coliseum NCAA Tournament record. The previous record attendance was 6,074, set in 2016, and it seems likely that this year’s games will surpass that figure.
Eastern Washington, despite their loss, had an exceptional season, finishing with an impressive record of 29-6 and claiming both the Big Sky regular-season and conference tournament titles. Jamie Loera was their standout performer in the game against the Beavers, scoring 21 points.
The Beavers initially struggled to find their rhythm after a two-week break, committing eight turnovers in the first quarter, which the Eagles capitalized on to build an 18-10 lead. However, Oregon State swiftly regained their composure, closing out the first quarter with five unanswered points. From there, they embarked on a stunning 27-6 run, fueled by dominant performances from Raegan Beers inside the paint and Dominika Paurova from the perimeter.
By halftime, Oregon State had transformed their eight-point deficit into a commanding 39-27 lead, with Beers impressively contributing 18 of her 19 points during the first half. The Beavers maintained their momentum, extending their lead to 20 points early in the third quarter. Despite Eastern Washington’s efforts, they never managed to come closer than 17 points for the remainder of the game.
Looking ahead, Oregon State’s victory in the first round highlights their potential for success in the tournament. Their ability to overcome adversity and capitalize on their strengths makes them a formidable opponent for any remaining teams in the upcoming rounds. The Beavers’ depth, shooting accuracy, and strong presence on the boards will be crucial factors in their pursuit of a deep tournament run.
As we consider the implications of this game and its potential impact on future rounds, it is clear that Oregon State’s performance serves as a marker of their ambition and determination to compete for the NCAA women’s basketball championship. With their storied history in the tournament and a talented roster capable of stepping up when called upon, the Beavers are well-positioned to make a significant impact in the rest of the competition.
Additionally, their ability to draw a large crowd to Gill Coliseum further illustrates the growing popularity and support for women’s basketball. This surge in attendance not only enhances the atmosphere of the games but also highlights the increasing interest and investment in the sport.
Looking beyond this specific matchup, it is important to recognize the broader trends in women’s basketball. The game continues to evolve, with players showcasing exceptional skills and athleticism. The sport’s popularity is rising, and more opportunities for young women to participate at various levels are emerging.
In terms of recommendations for the industry, it is crucial to continue growing and promoting women’s basketball, both at the collegiate and professional levels. Increasing exposure through media coverage, sponsorships, and grassroots initiatives will help to foster a wider fan base and engage a larger audience.
Furthermore, investing in the development of young players and providing equal opportunities for women in coaching and leadership roles will help to further elevate the sport. Empowering female athletes, both on and off the court, is key to ensuring the continued growth and success of women’s basketball.
In summary, Oregon State’s dominant victory in the first round of the NCAA women’s basketball tournament exemplifies their strength and resilience as a team. Their performance sets the stage for an exciting journey through the rest of the tournament, where they aim to continue their winning streak. The implications of this game reach far beyond the court, highlighting the growing interest in women’s basketball and the potential for further development and investment in the sport. As we eagerly anticipate the next matchups, it is clear that women’s basketball is heading towards a bright and promising future.