Oregon State's women's basketball team secured a spot in the program's first regional final in six years after defeating Notre Dame 70-65 in a thrilling matchup. The Beavers, seeded third, showcased a dominant performance with their big players stepping up to the challenge.
Timea Gardiner led the charge with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Raegan Beers contributed 18 points and 13 boards. Donovyn Hunter added 11 points to help Oregon State secure the victory.
The Beavers' strong defensive effort limited Notre Dame's star player, Hannah Hidalgo, to just 10 points, well below her season average. Oregon State's efficient shooting at 60% from the field and their dominance on the boards outrebounding the Irish 42-24 were key factors in their success.
Despite a resilient effort from Notre Dame, led by Sonia Citron's 22 points and Maddy Westbeld's 19 points, the Irish fell short in the face of Oregon State's determined play.
Coach Niele Ivey expressed frustration over a ruling that forced Hidalgo to remove a nose stud during the game, causing an unexpected disruption. However, Oregon State maintained their composure and capitalized on key moments to secure the win.
Oregon State's victory sets up a showdown with top-seeded South Carolina in the upcoming regional final. The Beavers have shown resilience and determination throughout the tournament, aiming to make a statement on the national stage.
Looking ahead, Oregon State has a chance to advance further in the tournament, having previously reached the regional finals in 2018 and the Final Four in 2016. Their strong defensive mindset and cohesive team play have been instrumental in their success, setting the stage for an exciting matchup in the next round.
As the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament continues, Oregon State's impressive performance against Notre Dame highlights their potential to make a deep run in the competition. Fans can expect an intense battle in the regional final as the Beavers look to make history once again.
