With just four games remaining and a playoff spot up in the air, Chico State women’s basketball took their home court with great enthusiasm as they faced the San Francisco State Gators. The Wildcats went on to take home the victory by a score of 84-55. 

Coming into the game, the Gators held last place in the standings with a record of 1-18, losing their last 12 in a row. Forward Hannah Washington emphasized how important it is to not play lackadaisical despite an opposing team’s record.

“It’s extremely important because you can never underestimate anybody, especially in our league. It’s so competitive,” Washington said. “Anybody can win on any day. You really have to come with your best on that day. The person that comes with their best and gives their all is going to be the team that wins, and that was us tonight.”

The Wildcats got off on an aggressive lead over the Gators. By halftime, they were holding a 27-point lead. Guard Bailey Jones was the team’s leading scorer, as she was the only player to cross the double digit threshold. Jones had 11 points on the night as well as two rebounds and one assist.

“[I] move the ball and find open spaces so that my teammates can find me for the three,” Jones said.

When the second half got underway, the Wildcats came out aggressive and dominated over the Gators once again by outscoring them by 12 points in the third quarter. They finished off the victory over the Gators by a final score of 84-55. This now makes three consecutive wins for the Wildcats.

“I think just discipline, being the aggressors, playing tough defense, and having our rotations and talks – that was the key,” junior guard Vanessa Holland said.

Moving along with this victory, the Wildcats will now turn their attention to the Sonoma State Seawolves who hold an 11-8 record and are right above the Wildcats in the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Women’s Basketball standings. This game will take place on Saturday Feb. 22 right back in Acker Gym.

“Sonoma’s a really good team. I think we just need to keep this momentum going,” Holland said. “We’re going to prepare tomorrow, and we’re ready. It’s a big one.”

Alex Martin can be reached at [email protected] or @amjournalism130 on Twitter.