Pioneers Display Growth in Hard Fought Battle Against Northwest University

By Daniel Morales

November 24, 2025

The Covered Wagon was alive on Sunday afternoon as the Pacific Union College women's basketball team delivered one of their most energetic performances of the season against Northwest University. With key contributors returning from injury and the team finding a stronger rhythm, the Pioneers showed significant progress despite a 79-58 final score.

From the start, PUC matched Northwest's pace and intensity. The Pioneers trailed by just four after the first quarter and continued to generate quality offensive possessions through disciplined ball movement, something the squad has emphasized in recent practices. At halftime, PUC remained well within striking distance at 41-33, demonstrating poise and improved cohesion.

Northwest applied pressure from beyond the arc, knocking down 13 three pointers to maintain their lead. While the Eagles' second-chance scoring and points off turnovers eventually widened the gap, the Pioneers showed clear progress in several areas, including rebounding where they edged out Northwest 35-34 and free throw shooting, finishing an impressive 20 for 25 at the line.

Junior transfer Krystal Pineda continued her strong play, leading PUC with 14 points and adding 10 rebounds for a well-earned double-double, along with 3 assists and 1 steal.

Freshman Stephanie Zuniga provided a steady offensive presence, scoring 13 points while going 8–11 from the free-throw line and grabbing 6 rebounds in a full 40-minute effort.

Victoria Fowler, a Sacramento Adventist Academy alumnus, delivered a dominant night on the glass, hauling in a team-high 10 rebounds paired with 11 points, 4 assists, and 2 blocks, anchoring both ends of the floor. Mataya Amen-Sherman added 10 points, hit two timely threes, and contributed 5 rebounds and 1 steal, while Aaliyah Gaitan chipped in 5 points and provided solid perimeter defense.

Off the bench, Mykayln Gutierrez made an immediate impact by knocking down a three and scoring 3 points in her 11 minutes of action. Raven James added 2 points, and Ronna-Lee Henry brought energy and a rebound during her time on the court.

PUC's improved chemistry and ball distribution were evident throughout the night. With rotations stabilizing as injured players return, the Pioneers displayed better spacing, communication, and offensive flow. Despite Northwest's efficient perimeter shooting and deeper bench production, PUC battled competitively for three quarters before the Eagles pulled away late.

With visible improvement and growing confidence, the Pioneers look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their upcoming matchup set for November 29 at NCAA D2 opponent Dominican University. Tipoff is set for 6pm at Conlan Center in San Rafael California.