Umpqua Holds Off Clippers' Second Half Comeback to Advance 75-67
PASCO, Wash. — Umpqua (22-8, 12-4) held off a furious second half rally by South Puget Sound (19-8, 10-2) to hold onto a 75-67 victory in Game 5 of the 2026 NWAC Women's Basketball Championship, presented by ICCU, on Saturday at Columbia Basin College
The Riverhawks got out to an incredible start, leading by as many as 31 points midway through the second quarter. The Clippers then turned up the gas, narrowing the deficit to 20 points at halftime and 16 after three quarters. They eventually got within six points in the fourth quarter, but came up just short. Umpqua had four scorers reach 15 or more points, led by a big double-double of 18 points and 20 rebounds by Kaelyn Shoemaker.
The game started with the Riverhawks taking control early, as Adrianne Tupolo scored the first points with a layup, assisted by Giselle Muffett, 57 seconds into play. UCC maintained momentum with Marlee Reupena contributing vital paint points, scoring multiple times, including a layup at 1:09 to give a 19-point lead. The Clippers, despite a 3-pointer from Dakota Carson at 0:57, struggled to find a rhythm, committing six turnovers in the quarter. The Riverhawks capitalized on these opportunities and ended the first quarter with a commanding 24-8 lead, supported by Muffett's sharp shooting, including two 3-pointers.
The Riverhawks extended their lead over SPSCC with a strong performance in the second quarter, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Muffett at 8:54. Rebekah Beltran contributed significantly, hitting a 3-pointer at 6:25 and assisting on multiple plays. UCC capitalized on turnovers and maintained defensive pressure, allowing it to build a comfortable lead. The Clippers' Dakota Carson and Brooklyn Fuller managed to connect on a couple of key shots, but UCC finished the half ahead, 43-23.
The Riverhawks maintained their lead over the Clippers despite a competitive third quarter. SPSCC reduced the deficit early in the quarter with Mia Martinez and Jaynee Tanner contributing key points. UCC's Sydnee Muntifering responded with a layup at 6:02, assisted by Beltran, to extend the lead. Muffett added a 3-pointer at 4:00, and later, two successful free throws at 0:52 secured a 57-41 advantage for UCC at the end of the third quarter.
In the final quarter, UCC maintained its lead to secure a victory over the Clippers with a score of 75-67. Despite a push from SPSCC, which included a series of layups and free throws from Jaynee Tanner, UCC's consistent scoring kept the game out of reach. Kaelyn Shoemaker contributed significantly, adding crucial paint points and securing defensive rebounds. Beltran's late 3-pointer and free throws helped UCC withstand SPSCC's late attempts to close the gap.
Muffett led UCC with a standout performance as she knocked down four from beyond the arc to tally 18 points. She also contributed 9 rebounds, showcasing her ability on both ends of the court. Shoemaker was dominant on the boards, grabbing 20 rebounds, while adding 18 points and 2 blocks. Reupena provided significant support, scoring 15 points and dishing out five assists, along with three steals. Beltran also made a notable impact with 17 points, eight assists, and three steals, effectively facilitating the offense and applying defensive pressure. Muntifering was a defensive standout with 14 rebounds, three steals, and two blocks, reinforcing the Riverhawks' efforts in controlling the paint.
Tanner was outstanding for SPSCC, leading the team with 32 points, converting 9 of 16 field goal attempts, and sinking all 13 of her free throw attempts. Her contribution extended to the boards, where she grabbed 11 total rebounds. Martinez also played a significant role, scoring 18 points on 8-of-15 shooting, including two 3-pointers, while adding three rebounds and four assists. Cristazia Cristobal was notable on defense, securing two steals and contributing seven rebounds. Carson chipped in with nine points and four assists.
Umpqua moves onto the Elite Eight for the fourth-straight year and next await the winner of Peninsula vs. Treasure Valley. South Puget Sound completes an outstanding season with a 19-8 record, earning the No. 2 seed out of the West Region.