PROVO, Utah (Nov. 9, 2024) - Allyson Fertig scored 22 points and completed 18 rebounds, yet that wasn't enough to tame the BYU Cougars in Provo on Saturday afternoon. The Cowgirls started out strong, which carried throughout the first haalf. However, Wyoming looked like a completely different team in the second half, eventually losing to BYU 63-76. With Saturday's loss, the Cowgirls are now 0-2 on the season.
First Period
BYU took the first lead of the game at 9:07 with a three-pointer from Delaney Gibb. Wyoming quickly responded with Mellema’s layup. BYU took advantage of fast breaks and jump shots to gain an edge. However, Wyoming's Tess Barnes sparked a brief run, draining three-pointers to put the Cowgirls ahead. The Cougars answered with consistent offense but struggled with turnovers. In the final moments, Ola Ustowska hit a three-pointer to give Wyoming an 18-16 lead at the end of the period.
Second Period
The University of Wyoming surged ahead in the second period, aided by tight defense and efficient shooting. Mellema hit a jumper to set the tone early, followed by a three-pointer from Ustowska, pushing the lead to 23-16. Allyson Fertig dominated on both ends of the court, contributing key rebounds, blocks, and points, including a hook shot in the paint. BYU fought back with baskets from Emma Calvert and Kemery Congdon, but Wyoming’s balanced offensive attack, including timely points from Malene Pedersen and Barnes, kept the Cougars at bay. Fertig sealed the period with late free throws, extending Wyoming’s lead to 40-27.
Third Period
BYU mounted a strong comeback in the third period, with Emma Calvert opening the scoring with a three-pointer. The Cougars’ momentum continued as Marya Hudgins drained a three-pointer, closing the gap to 41-36. Wyoming struggled offensively, missing several shots and committing turnovers, which BYU capitalized on with fast breaks and layups. The Cougars took the lead at 46-43 with contributions from Gibb and Hudgins. BYU extended their lead further with more three-pointers and second-chance points, finishing the period ahead 58-46. Wyoming tried to fight back but could not stop BYU’s aggressive play.
Fourth Period
BYU took the reigns and showed dominance as Delaney Gibb took charge early in the fourth, shooting three-pointers to extend the Cougars' lead. Wyoming’s Mellema tried to spark a rally with a three-pointer and jumper shot, but the Cowgirls couldn’t close the gap. Despite solid efforts from Fertig and Wyoming's defense, BYU continued to push ahead with free throws and defensive rebounds. BYU secured the win with a final score of 76-63.
Up Next
The Cowgirls host the Regis Wranglers on Wednesday at the Arena Auditorium. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
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