PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Portland Pilots came back from a deficit as high as 19 points, but fell narrowly to the Gonzaga Bulldogs 76-71 at the Chiles Center.
The Pilots (14-2, 3-2) had four players score in double figures, led by Trista Hull, who had a career-high 18 points and two blocks. Maisie Burnham added 16 points, four assists and two steals and Emme Shearer and McKelle Meek both put scored 14 points.
Portland forced 23 Gonzaga turnovers while nabbing eight steals. The Pilots turned those takeaways into 28 points on the offensive end of the floor. Mark, Burnham and Ananiev all had two steals each.
How It Happened
Portland kept it close in the first quarter, but entered the second frame down 17-15. The Pilots lost ground in the second quarter, with the Zags lighting it up from outside and making it a 43-30 lead at the half.
Gonzaga continued to increase its lead after halftime, building a 52-33 advantage before Portland finally responded with an 8-0 run halfway through the third quarter to make it 52-41 Zags. The Pilots continued to cut into the Gonzaga lead, shrinking it to 59-51 by the end of the third quarter. Portland played well near the basket, scoring 14 of their21 points in the paint.
The Pilots continued to chip away at the Zags, making it a 61-60 game deep into the final quarter. Gonzaga responded and outscored the Pilots the rest of the way, ending the game with a final score of 76-71.
Game Notes
» The Pilots shared the ball well, recording an assist on 87% of made baskets for 20 assists total. They've had at least 20 assists in six of their last seven games.
» The Portland defense forced 23 turnovers and added eight steals.
» Trista Hull led the Pilots with 18 points. That's a career high for the post.
» Despite the loss, the Pilots are still off to their best start since the 1996-97 season.
Up Next
The Pilots host the LMU Lions on Saturday, Jan. 4 at 3 p.m. here at the Chiles Center. The game is part of a doubleheader against the men, who play Saint Mary's at 7 p.m. Check PortlandPilots.com for tickets, live stats and video options.
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