Clippers Win 1st Tournament Game Since 2008, Defeating Big Bend 57-45
PASCO, Wash. - South Puget Sound secured a 57-45 victory and the first upset of the tourney over Big Bend in the first round of the 2025 NWAC Women's Basketball Championship, presented by Golf Universe on Wednesday at Columbia Basin College. This victory marked a significant milestone for the West Region's No. 3 seed, as it was their first win in the tournament since 2008.
The South Puget Sound women's basketball team (21-8) featured several standout players, particularly in the post, who contributed significantly to their recent game. Jaynee Tanner led the team with 16 points and secured 14 rebounds, making her a key player on both ends of the floor. Taylor Teeple also had a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing her ability to contribute offensively and defensively. Vy Tran also made a substantial impact, recording 11 rebounds and adding 9 points, while also delivering three assists.
South Puget Sound led the first quarter against BBCC by a score of 11-6. SPSCC capitalized on points in the paint, securing eight of their eleven points from inside. The Vikings struggled with their shooting, making only two of twenty-one attempts.
In the second quarter, the Clippers outscored Big Bend 23-14, extending their largest lead to seventeen points. SPSCC shot nine-for-19 from the field, including four-for-six from beyond the arc, and grabbed 13 rebounds while committing only one turnover. Vy Tran contributed significantly with two 3-pointers, four assists, and five defensive rebounds, helping the Clippers maintain control without relinquishing the lead.
In the third quarter, South Puget Sound scored 12 points, while BBCC managed 13, slightly narrowing their lead. The Clippers closed out the fourth quarter by holding the Vikings to 0-for-14 on three pointers in the final 10 minutes.
Oaklie Jackman stood out for the Big Bend women's basketball team (23-7) with a strong performance, scoring 14 points and securing 13 rebounds. Riley Layton also made a significant contribution, matching Jackman's 13 rebounds and adding 9 points while blocking 2 shots. Amaya Rogers provided additional scoring with 8 points. One of the top three point shooting teams in the NWAC during the regular season at over a 30 percent clip, the Vikings could not find their long range shots in this one as they went 3-for-42 from beyond the arc.
The Clippers will continue their tournament, advancing to the Elite 8 round on Thursday. They will battle the North No. 1 seed Peninsula at 2 p.m.