Thanks to stifling defense and scorching shooting, the Vikings women’s basketball team blew out Montana State University-Billings 76-49 March 2, at Sam Carver Gym. The win moves Western one step closer to winning the inagural GNAC Women's Basketball Tournament.
Three-pointers were the story in the first half with starting guard Corinn Waltrip and forward Kristin Schramm combining for 8 of 9 shooting behind the arc.
The Vikings shot 60 percent from the field in the first half and went into halftime, leading the game 50-25.
“I think it was an excellent first half, not only on the defensive end but also on offense,” head coach Carmen Dolfo said. “This league is tough, and you have so many good teams. I just think we came ready to go and we will have to again on Saturday night.”
With great shooting and efficient ball movement, it was clear the Vikings were not nervous about playing in the GNAC semifinal.
“I think they came very focused on the main goal, which is to win this championship,” assistant coach Jennifer Childress said. “Every player was focused. You don’t shoot that well if you come out brain-dead.”
Western forced the Yellow Jackets into tough shots all night. Montana State shot only 17-50 from the field. The Yellow Jackets made 17 trips to the free throw line throughout the game, coming on calls that many Vikings fans were audibly displeased with.
“Of course I’m biased, but I feel like Western always gets more fouls called on them than the other team. That’s what happens when you’re the best, though,” Western sophomore basketball fan Kevin Ernest said, who was sporting his standard blue and white face paint.
The Vikings weren’t as dominant on offense in the second half as in the first, but tough defensive play kept the Yellow Jackets from finding their rhythm. Waltrip and Schramm scored 23 points each, leading the team to their 26th straight victory at Carver Gym.
Western, which is now ranked 11th in the nation, will face Alaska Anchorage Saturday, March 5 in the GNAC Tournament final at Carver Gym. Alaska Anchorage came back from a 19-point deficit against Seattle Pacific to win 68-66 Wednesday, March 2, meaning the top two seeds in the GNAC will be playing in the final.
“It’s going to be hard,” Schramm said. “They came back from being down by 20 tonight, so they’re tough. I can’t wait, though. Coach Dolfo was telling us she hasn’t cut down a net since she’s been here, and I haven’t since I was a freshman in high school.”
Home court advantage is giving confidence to both players and fans, who haven’t seen their team lose in more than two years at Carver Gym.
“To know that you’ve got people backing you up helps,” Ernest said. “They’re very talented as is, but I think the fans add some confidence.”
Both fans and players recognize the added benefits of the Vikings playing at Carver Gym.
“I think if we bring our teamwork and confidence, we will be successful,” Hefflin said. “I just love that it’s (in Carver Gym). I think that playing in our home gym really helps.”
