KELOWNA, B.C. - The UBCO Heat defeated the Victoria Vikes 97-68 in an explosive victory to conclude the 2024-25 regular season.

Tsuki Tsuzuki led the Heat with a career-high 22 points and getting four steals. Kelsey Falk made her last showing in the UBCO Gymnasium count as she recorded 14 points, a team-high 10 steals setting a new personal best, along with five assists and seven rebounds. Notably, Falk also set the new all-time team record for most field goals made. Graduating senior Lauren Foullong scored nine points, all from three-point range, breaking her single-season record for three-pointers made, surpassing her previous mark of 45 from last year.

In the first quarter, the Heat and Vikes engaged in a closely contested match, with the Vikes taking an early lead. Lily Pink was a standout for UBCO, scoring multiple jumpers including one to tie the game at 15-15 with under a minute left. Despite a strong defensive effort, which included seven steals by the Heat, Victoria edged ahead to close the quarter with a 22-19 lead.

UBCO capitalized on turnovers and strong shooting to outscore the Vikes 22-11 in the second quarter. Tennyson McCarthy played a pivotal role scoring multiple jumpers, including a key basket at the six minute mark to push the Heat ahead. 

In the third quarter, UBCO surged offensively, outscoring the Vikes by 30 points, with a final quarter score of 42-12. This remarkable third quarter saw the Heat break their record for most points scored in a game. Tsuki Tsuzuki contributed significantly with multiple three-pointers, including one at the five minute mark, which extended the team lead to 53-37. 

In the final quarter, the Heat maintained their lead over the Vikes with a strong showing from Kiana Kaczur, who hit a three-pointer just after the eight minute mark to continue a steady Heat lead.  Despite a series of turnovers, the Heat capitalized on key plays, with Lily Pink scoring a jumper assisted by Ryley Bullock, to conclude the teams fourth-quarter performance and take the game 97-68

With the victory tonight, the Heat's conference record is solidified at 7-13 and Canada West playoff action is set to begin next weekend. Stay tuned to GoHeat.ca and @UBCOHeat on socials for schedule information as it becomes available.