LANGLEY, B.C. — The UBCO Heat women's basketball team (5-5) faced a tough challenge against Trinity Western (8-2), falling 64-50 on Saturday despite a strong defensive effort with six blocks. 

Tennyson McCarthy posted a double-double with 11 rebounds and seven points, along with two blocks to lead the Heat. Aiko Williams led the scoring with 10 points, including two 3-pointers, and contributed one block. Lily Pink secured eight rebounds and four assists, enhancing her defensive play with two steals. Kanani Coon added nine points and collected six rebounds, also recording one block and one steal.

Cassidy Buchanan led Trinity Western with 15 points, connecting on 6 of 16 shots, including one three-pointer, while also collecting four steals and eight rebounds. Moriah Jansen contributed 14 points and added two assists and one block.

UBCO established an early advantage, leveraging a 15-7 rebounding edge to control the pace and outscore Trinity Western 18-9 in the first quarter. The Heat's defence was pivotal, allowing only four baskets and forcing two turnovers while converting five of six free throws to extend their lead.

Trinity Western dominated the second quarter, capitalizing on UBCO's nine turnovers, which translated into 11 points off turnovers and contributed to their 26-7 scoring advantage. UBCO struggled offensively, converting only three of 10 shots. Meanwhile, the Spartans defence was crucial, registering five steals and holding the visitors to just one offensive rebound. By the end of the quarter, the hosts led 35-25.

UBCO narrowed the gap in the third quarter, outscoring Trinity Western 16-10. The Heat's proficiency from beyond the arc, hitting three out of six 3-point attempts, contrasted sharply with TWU's failure to connect from long range. Despite committing eight turnovers, UBCO's dominant 13-3 rebounding advantage, including four offensive boards, allowed them to capitalize on second-chance opportunities. At the end of the quarter, UBCO trailed Trinity Western 45-41.

In the fourth quarter, the Spartans secured the game by outscoring UBCO 19-9, leveraging a dominant presence in the paint with 10 points compared to the visitors' four. The Heat struggled with their shooting, converting only four of 15 attempts, while Trinity Western capitalized on defensive rebounds, totaling 10. The home team also gained momentum through fast breaks, adding four points, and maintained their edge by forcing four turnovers.

Looking ahead, the Heat will host the nationally-ranked UBC Thunderbirds on Friday, Nov. 28 at 7:30 p.m. The match will take place at UBCO Gymnasium and tickets for the game can be purchased by visiting GoHeat.ca/Tickets.