KELOWNA , B.C. - The UBCO Heat fell to the Victoria Vikes 76-70 in an action packed overtime loss on Friday night at the UBCO Gymnasium.

Kelsey Falk made history by becoming the Heat's all-time leading rebounder, after putting up 14 rebounds tonight, while also adding nine points, two blocks, and three steals. Tsuki Tsuzuki demonstrated defensive prowess with a team-high four steals and added five assists, setting a new record for most steals made in a rookie season with a tally of 39. Rookie Kiana Kaczur also set a career high of 16 points shooting 50% from the field and beyond the arc. 

The Heat led the first quarter against Victoria with a score of 13-11. UBCO's defence forced eight turnovers and recorded eight steals. Despite committing six personal fouls, the Heat maintained their lead through strong rebounding, tallying 12 total, including four offensive boards.

In the second quarter, the Heat showed resilience on the boards, grabbing 18 total rebounds. Meanwhile, Victoria's strong perimeter shooting, hitting five of eight 3-point attempts, and 14 points from the bench helped them to their 20-10 scoring advantage.

In the third quarter, the Heat outscored Victoria 21-15, recording three 3-pointers, six assists and two blocks. UBCO also excelled in rebounding with a total of 17, including nine offensive rebounds. Despite not attempting any free throws, UBCO scored ten points from the bench and ten points in the paint.

In the fourth quarter, the Heat outscored Victoria 19-17, with strong contributions from their bench, adding ten points. The Heat took advantage of free throws, converting six of 12 attempts, and nailed three 3-pointers to even the score in regulation, sending the game into overtime.

In the overtime battle, UBCO faced a challenging stretch, scoring seven points compared to Victoria's 13. Despite committing three turnovers, UBCO managed two blocks and one steal. Victoria capitalized on their opportunities, converting five of 11 field goals and maintaining a perfect two for two from the free-throw line. In this intense back-and-forth battle, the game ultimately fell in favour of the Vikes with a final score of 76-70.

Following the overtime win the Vikes record rises to 12-7 while the Heat sinks to 6-13. Despite the loss tonight the Heat still managed to clinch the fifth playoff spot in the Canada West Pacific Divison.

Tomorrow night these two teams will face each other again in the 2024-25 regular season finale.  Tomorrow night is also graduating seniors night where the Heat will recognize their three graduating players Kelsey Falk, Abby Smith and Lauren Foullong and their contributions to the women's basketball program. Tipoff is set for 6 pm PST. Tickets can be purchased at the door on game day.