The Chico State Women’s basketball team defeated the San Marcos Cougars 59-55 in their Thursday night matchup in Acker Gym, bumping them up to a 15-6 conference record.

The Cougars came out strong in the first quarter, pressuring the ’Cats with a full-court press defense. 

Senior forward Madison Parry had 21 points, and noted that the ’Cats adjusted too and broke the press by passing, cutting, moving and finding the open space. 

They were undeterred by the full-court defense and ended the first quarter 15-11, capitalizing on three Cougar turnovers. 

When the second quarter began, the Cougars ramped up their defensive pressure yet again. They were constantly pursuing steals, but the ’Cats refused to let it happen easily. 

“I think the most important thing is to run in transition,” Parry said. “And our guards did a great job at pushing and doing that tempo.”

The ’Cats kept their lead steady going into halftime with a score of 30-27. 

Senior guard Kaylie Edge talked about what their halftime meeting addressed, aiming to carry their success into the second half. 

“The game plan was just making a few adjustments on our end and then continuing to shut down,” Edge said. “One girl got loose in the first half, and we wanted to shut her down and continue doing our principles.” 

The ’Cats did just that, closing out the third quarter with a 44-41 lead. Though the margin was slim, Edge stepped up defensively and knocked down key free throws when it mattered most. 

“We had this mentality that, you know, get it done, and we found that extra gear,” Edge said. 

The close game came down to the last couple of plays, tied 51-51 with three minutes left in regulation. Edge knocked down a 3-point play, giving the ’Cats the lead with two minutes left. 

Parry secured the win, sinking two more free throws. 

Edge commended the freshmen for stepping up in crucial moments and noted the team’s ability to adjust and stay united – a mindset they’re determined to carry into the playoffs. 

The ’Cats next game is in Acker Gym on Saturday at 1 p.m against Cal State Monterey Bay, marking their last regular season game of the year.

Acker Gym grants free entry with a Chico State student ID card or a students canvas home page. 

For information about all Chico State athletics or to keep up with the game live, visit the Wildcat home page, or watch through FloSports. 

Maya Vanlaningham can be reached at [email protected]