Analysis

Takeaways From Gonzaga WBB's Blowout Exhibition Win Over Westmont

Cruising to an exhibition victory, Gonzaga women's basketball had a few notable tweaks against Westmont. What were some similarities and differences in the Zags' playstyle?

Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Julia Wilson (3) drives with the ball against Westmont at the McCarthey Athletic Center. Credit: Gonzaga Athletics

A slow start by Gonzaga women’s basketball in its lone exhibition game snowballed into an 84-43 win over Westmont. The Bulldogs used a more balanced attack than they’re accustomed to in their dismantling of the Warriors, pushing the pace to generate transition scoring and overpower their DII opponent.

Head coach Lisa Fortier appreciated her team’s energy throughout the game, but their execution in the middle quarters, and especially the third, was the momentum-swinging period for the Zags. They outscored Westmont 20-9 in the second and 29-10 out of halftime. GU charted 24 fast break opportunities, took 19 3-pointers, and shot 23 free throws.

After being the best 3-point shooting team in the country last season, Gonzaga making a modest seven of 19 attempts from distance in this win was more of a footnote on Wednesday.

“It was really cool to see, third quarter, come out and we were playing Zags basketball,” junior forward Lauren Whittaker said.

Lauren Whittaker, Still Dominant

Most of the Zags took a while to get into an offensive groove, but not last season’s WCC Freshman and Player of the Year. Whittaker didn’t miss a beat, logging 24 points, six rebounds, three assists, and two steals on 9-of-11 shooting in 21 minutes.

Converting three and-1 opportunities, Whittaker enforced her will on the interior as she did countless times a season ago. She also fought through contact, only turning the ball over once, which has been an issue for her.

It was essentially a perfect showing from Whittaker. She dominated down low, got to the free-throw line, and made it look easy, leading all players in scoring and rebounding. Whittaker will once again be the player Gonzaga’s offense plays through, and after an electric first collegiate season, she showed no signs of a second-year slump.

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