Washington Women’s Basketball Team Falls To Cougars 57-43

SEATTLE, Wash. – In the second round of the Boeing Apple Cup Series, the Washington women's basketball team lost to the cross-state rival, Washington State 57-43 in Alaska Airlines Arena. 
 
In the first quarter, the Huskies (5-9) came out strong running their fast-paced motion offense. At the end of the first period, Washington State led 15-10 after a buzzer-beater three from the Cougars (12-6). 
 
In quarter two, the Huskies were crashing the offensive boards well and getting second and third chances. Scrappy defense combined with a three-pointer from Haley Van Dyke gave the Dawgs strong momentum and a 7-0 run over Washington State. Another buzzer-beater closed out the first half, this time from Missy Peterson. Going into the break, the Cougars had a 3-point lead. 
 
In the start of the second half, Washington continued to move the ball well, getting open looks at the basket. A back-door cut from Peterson gave the Dawgs the lead 2 minutes into the third quarter. It was back-and-forth with both teams' shots falling. The score was 41-35, Cougars leading going into the final period. 
 
In the final 10 minutes of the contest, the Huskies kept fighting. Ultimately, the Cougars were able to pull away. 
 
"There were good moments today," said head coach Tina Langley. "I thought Haley [Van Dyke] was outstanding. I love the confidence that she is showing. She is making really good decisions with the basketball. I am proud of her game." 
 
Van Dyke had 17 points on the night. Nancy Mulkey and Lauren Schwartz both contributed seven. 
 
"We talk a lot about trusting in the locker room," said Langley. "If we stick to our goal of being better every day, the wins will come."
 
Next, the Huskies take on Utah in Salt Lake City on Friday, Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. PST.