Fort Lewis College Women’s Basketball Triumphs with Stellar Shooting Performance

In an electrifying display of skill and teamwork, the Fort Lewis College (FLC) women’s basketball team clinched a decisive 72-53 victory over Westminster University. The game took place at the FLC home court and showcased the Skyhawks’ improved shooting and relentless defense. It marked a significant turnaround from their previous struggles.

With this win, FLC improved their overall record to 10-4. They also leveled their Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) standing to 3-3.

Strong Shooting Propels Skyhawks to Victory

The Skyhawks’ shooting really stood out. Head coach Lauren Zuniga had a lot of faith in her team’s shot-making, and it paid off—FLC shot 41% from the field, 43% from three, and 75% at the line.

This was a big jump from their last game against Western Colorado, where their shooting just wasn’t there.

Key Performers

Sophomore guard Katie Lamb led the charge with 16 points, going 6-15 from the field and 4-7 from deep. Junior Makaya Porter came off the bench and gave the team a boost, adding 14 points.

Sophomore Claudia Palacio Gámez chipped in with five points, seven assists, and seven rebounds. She did a little bit of everything.

• Katie Lamb: 16 points, 6-15 FG, 4-7 3PT
• Makaya Porter: 14 points, 5-13 FG, 1-2 3PT
• Claudia Palacio Gámez: 5 points, 7 assists, 7 rebounds

Defensive Prowess and Turnovers

FLC’s defense played a huge role in the win. The Skyhawks forced 22 turnovers and made it tough for Westminster to get comfortable in their half-court sets.

This defensive pressure was a big step up from their previous game, where they had allowed nearly 40 free throws against Western Colorado.

Half-Court Defense

The Skyhawks’ half-court defense kept disrupting Westminster’s offense. They forced a lot of late, tough shots and never really let Westminster settle in.

This effort stayed pretty consistent all game, which helped FLC keep control even when their own offense sputtered a bit.

Game Flow and Key Moments

Both teams struggled to finish inside early on. FLC grabbed an early lead with a transition 3-pointer from Katie Lamb, plus a step-back three from Claudia Palacio Gámez.

The Skyhawks ended the first quarter up 15-11.

Second Quarter Surge

In the second quarter, FLC went on a 14-0 run. They stretched their lead to 34-20 by halftime.

They hit threes off drive-and-kick action instead of set plays. Coach Zuniga talked about not forcing shots, which helped the team find a better offensive rhythm.

Maintaining the Lead

The Skyhawks kept rolling in the third quarter, leading 43-24 with 3:45 left. Westminster tried to fight back with a 9-2 run, but FLC stayed calm and got to the free-throw line to keep a 49-38 lead heading into the fourth.

Fourth Quarter Challenges

Westminster made another push and cut FLC’s lead to 53-46. The Skyhawks’ defense held strong, though, and Lamb and Palacio Gámez came up with big plays.

Lamb drilled a clutch three, and Davis added an old-fashioned three-point play. That put FLC up 64-50 with just over two minutes to go.

Looking Ahead

The Skyhawks just picked up a big win. Their shooting looked sharper, and they played tougher defense this time around.

They’ll try to keep that energy going in their next matchup against South Dakota Mines. If they can stay calm under pressure and stick to their plan, they’ve got a real shot at making some noise in the RMAC.