The University of Idaho women’s basketball team delivered an impressive performance Friday night, defeating the Gonzaga Bulldogs 86-75 at the McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane. In a matchup featuring two teams that competed in the NCAA Tournament last season, the Vandals made an early statement, controlling the game from the opening quarter and securing one of their biggest early-season victories.
Idaho entered the contest looking to build on its strong season-opening performance against Saint Martin’s. The Vandals did exactly that, demonstrating offensive efficiency, physical defense and outstanding rebounding against a Gonzaga team playing on its home floor. The victory improved Idaho’s record to 2-0 to begin the 2026-27 season, while Gonzaga fell to 1-1.
From the opening tip, Idaho showed confidence and determination. The Vandals jumped out to a 25-14 first-quarter advantage, putting pressure on Gonzaga’s defense and establishing control of the tempo.
The second quarter proved equally important as Idaho continued to find success offensively. The Vandals scored another 29 points before halftime, taking a commanding 54-35 lead into the locker room. Their ability to score from multiple positions and capitalize on rebounding opportunities made it difficult for Gonzaga to establish any consistent momentum.
Idaho’s first-half performance was particularly impressive considering the atmosphere inside the McCarthey Athletic Center, where 4,939 fans watched the two programs compete.
Two Vandals stood out offensively throughout the evening. Hope Hassmann led Idaho with an outstanding 28-point performance, adding five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Hassmann consistently found scoring opportunities and played a major role in keeping the Vandals ahead.
Ana Pinheiro was equally impressive, finishing with 26 points, six rebounds and four assists. Her ability to contribute both inside and outside gave Idaho another reliable scoring option and prevented Gonzaga from focusing its defensive attention on a single player. Jacey Boesel also provided an important contribution off the bench, scoring 12 points while helping Idaho maintain its offensive energy.
Keanna Salave’a made a significant impact on the glass, collecting a team-high 14 rebounds to go along with eight points and four assists. Her rebounding performance was especially important in limiting Gonzaga’s second-chance opportunities.
Although Idaho built a substantial halftime advantage, Gonzaga continued competing and attempted to make a comeback during the second half.
The Bulldogs scored 11 points in the third quarter while Idaho added 15, leaving the Vandals with a 69-46 advantage entering the final period. Idaho’s largest lead reached 24 points early in the fourth quarter.
Gonzaga eventually found some offensive rhythm, scoring 29 points in the fourth quarter and attempting to close the gap. However, Idaho remained composed when the pressure increased.
The Vandals converted important free throws down the stretch, making 11 of 14 attempts in the final 1:17 to prevent Gonzaga from completing its comeback. Despite Gonzaga’s late offensive push, Idaho maintained control and secured the 86-75 victory.
Idaho also finished with 20 bench points, 32 points in the paint and 16 fast-break points. The Vandals shot 41.2% from the field and made eight 3-pointers. Gonzaga shot 40.7% overall and finished with seven 3-pointers.
The 86-75 victory represents an encouraging early-season accomplishment for head coach Jon Newlee Moreira and the Vandals. Defeating a quality opponent on the road, particularly one with recent NCAA Tournament experience, provides valuable momentum as Idaho continues its 2026-27 campaign.
More importantly, the performance demonstrated the characteristics that can help Idaho remain competitive throughout the season: strong rebounding, balanced scoring, defensive effort and the ability to perform under pressure.
With Hassmann and Pinheiro leading the offensive attack and Salave’a providing a strong presence on the boards, the Vandals showed they have several players capable of making significant contributions. Idaho will look to carry that momentum into its upcoming games as it continues pursuing another successful season in the Big Sky Conference.
Friday night’s performance was more than just an early-season victory. It was a statement that Idaho women’s basketball is ready to compete against quality programs and build on the success of the previous season with a strong roster and an experienced coaching staff.
The Vandals next test will be against rival Washington State on Monday, Nov. 9 at 11 a.m. in Pullman, Washington.