McMINNVILLE, Ore. - In a dominant victory at home, Linfield defeated Lewis & Clark 65-52 on Friday night at Ted Wilson Gymnasium. This win improves the Wildcats' overall record to 12-2, with a 3-2 mark in Northwest Conference play.
The game was competitive early, with the two teams trading baskets. Linfield led 19-15 after the first quarter and extended its advantage to 39-28 at halftime, fueled by strong performances from
Miki Vermeulen and
Gillyan Landis. Vermeulen finished the game with a team-high 16 points, shooting 6-of-6 from the field, including 3-of-3 from three-point range. Landis added 10 points, draining six free throws and pulled down six rebounds as well.
The second half saw the Wildcats pull away. Despite a strong effort from Lewis & Clark, including 17 points from Lauryn Frederickson and 11 points from Madilyn Palosi, Linfield's defense stifled any comeback attempts. The Wildcats held a commanding 54-40 lead entering the final quarter. The Pioneers could not close the gap in the fourth, as Linfield maintained control, securing the win.
In addition to Vermeulen's stellar shooting,
Jordan Roberts netted a season high, 10 points to go along with three rebounds. Linfield's defense was key in this victory, recording 10 steals and forcing 20 turnovers. The Wildcats also dominated the glass, grabbing 38 rebounds to Lewis & Clark's 31.
Overall, the Wildcats capitalized on their depth, tallying 24 bench points, and defensive prowess to seal the win.
NEXT
Linfield turns its attention to Willamette who visits Ted Wilson Gymnasium Saturday night at 6 p.m.