Riverhawks Down Warriors 57-52 to Reach NWAC Championship Game

PASCO, Wash. – The Umpqua Riverhawks used a strong defensive second half to defeat the Walla Warriors 57-52 in the semifinals of the NWAC Women's Basketball Championship, presented by Golf Universe, on Saturday at Columbia Basin College.

Heading to the halftime locker room tied at 26 apiece, the Riverhawks (28-4) used a 15-10 third quarter advantage to take a lead into the fourth quarter. They then jumped ahead by a game-high 10 points midway through the fourth and held off the Warriors (22-8) late comeback attempt.

The two number two seeds left in the tournament, both teams played tough defense throughout, particularly on the perimeter. Umpqua was held to 4-for-29 (13.8%) from beyond the arc while the Warriors shot 3-for-29 (10.3%).

Both teams relied on their post play to score the majority of their points. Umpqua's Brooklyn Fely led all scorers with 28 points, adding 14 rebounds for a double-double. Audrey Miller had 10 points while Emma Aiono had five points and 13 boards.

The Warriors were led by Brielle Magnuson who had a strong game of 21 points and 15 rebounds. Paige Pentzer had a double-double as well with 14 points and 11 rebounds.

The Riverhawks advance to the finals for the first time since 2019 as they will look to win their first title since 2000. They will take on region rival Lane on Sunday at 4:45 p.m. at Holden Court.