KELOWNA, B.C. – The UBC Okanagan Heat women's basketball team dropped a 63-40 decision to the UFV Cascades in their final game before the holiday break on Saturday evening at the UBCO Gymnasium.
 
The difference in the game came in the second quarter when the Cascades smothered the Heat's offence, outscoring UBCO 16-3 in the frame to build an 18-point lead at the break. UFV extended their lead in the third quarter before both teams played their reserves for most of the fourth quarter, with UBCO outscoring UFV 14-11 in the final frame.
 
Despite the loss, Lily Pink of Kelowna, B.C., had a strong night for the Heat, earning player of the game honours with 11 points, five rebounds and one steal.
 
Temi Aina of Kamloops, B.C., also continued her strong play this weekend with nine points, two steals, two blocks and two rebounds.
 
UFV was led by Maddy Gobeil of Kamloops, B.C., as she had 15 points, six rebounds and four assists while Esther Allison of Langley, B.C., and Julia Tuchscherer of Chilliwack, B.C., also finished in double figures with 14 and 10 points respectively.
 
The setback leaves the Heat with a 3-7 record at the midway point of the season while UFV improves to 7-3.
 
UBCO will now have a month and a half off before their next Canada West action as they return to the court on Friday, January 17 when they travel to Alberta to take on the Alberta Pandas. Game time is set for 5 p.m. Pacific.