LETHBRIDGE – In a closely contested Friday night showdown at the University of Lethbridge Gymnasium, the Pronghorns faced off against the University of Alberta Pandas in what marked the climax of the Canada West regular season. Both teams, holding identical records of 12-6, entered the game with high stakes, but the Pronghorns faced a tough challenge against the visiting Pandas, who managed to pull away in the second half to secure a 62-38 victory.
Jenna Harpe led the Pandas with 15 points, with
Claire Signatovich adding 10 points and eight rebounds.
The game commenced on an equal footing, with both teams locked at 13 points by the end of the first quarter. The Pronghorns showcased their determination early on, with Abby Graves landing a three-point shot, momentarily edging ahead. However, the Pandas, led by Signatovich's six points in the first quarter, kept pace, concluding the opening quarter on even terms, despite aggressive defense from Danielle Nadeau and Kyra Collier of the Pronghorns.
The second quarter saw a shift in momentum as the Pandas embarked on a five-point run, only for the Pronghorns to respond with three-pointers from Vlada Hozalova and Kyra Collier, briefly reclaiming the lead. The Pandas, however, managed to finish the half in the lead, 28-23, thanks to crucial shots, including a three-pointer from
Ella Rees.
The third quarter proved challenging for the Pronghorns, who struggled to convert scoring opportunities, adding only six points to their tally. In contrast, the Pandas found their rhythm, adding 18 points to extend their lead significantly.
Despite a resilient start to the fourth quarter by the Pronghorns, the Pandas maintained their dominance, effectively breaking through the Pronghorns' defense to secure a comfortable lead. Efforts from Danielle Nadeau, who made a crucial steal and free throws, highlighted the Pronghorns' tenacity, but the Pandas' consistent scoring, including a three-pointer from Sara Kleib, cemented their victory as the game concluded.
Both teams are set to meet again for a rematch, promising another intense battle on the court, scheduled for Saturday, February 10, at 5 p.m. MST, once again at the University of Lethbridge Gymnasium.