Bulldogs too much for Triton women

BELLEVUE, Wash. — Edmonds College (3-10, 0-1) lost at Bellevue College (6-9, 1-0), 84-49, as the home team capitalized on 26 turnovers to score 37 points off those mistakes. The Tritons struggled from the field, shooting just 30%, and were unable to lead at any point in the matchup.

Edmonds began the first quarter with a missed three-pointer by Payton Fleishman, allowing Bellevue to capitalize early with a layup from Shannel Kovalsky at 9:13. Bellevue's offensive momentum continued as Alexis Marcussen and Sophia Mackay contributed to the scoring, putting the home team ahead 10-5 by 4:53. Despite a three-pointer from Kiani Hoolulu at 3:34, the Tritons struggled with turnovers, totaling nine in the quarter. Bellevue closed the quarter strong, with Leeschelle Sohappy scoring consecutive layups, extending their lead to 23-10 at the end of the quarter.

Bellevue extended their lead with a dominant second-quarter performance, highlighted by Shannel Kovalsky's layup just three seconds into the quarter. Leeschelle Sohappy quickly followed with a fastbreak layup, assisted by D'Ana Esquivel, pushing the home team's advantage further. Megan Krell contributed to Bellevue's scoring run with a three-pointer at 8:45, increasing the lead to 30-10. Despite efforts from Edmonds, including Ava Uusitalo's layup at 7:28 and subsequent free throws later in the quarter, Bellevue maintained control, ending the half with a 47-26 lead.

Bellevue maintained a strong lead throughout the third quarter, extending their advantage to 29 points at one point. Leeschelle Sohappy was pivotal, contributing six points with two layups and a jumper. Katen Myers added to Bellevue's dominance with a layup and an assist for Sophia Mackay's three-pointer at 5:23. Edmonds struggled to keep pace, with Ava Uusitalo and Payton Fleishman each scoring a layup, but they ended the quarter trailing 66-39.

Bellevue secured a decisive victory in the final quarter, extending their lead with strong defensive plays and efficient scoring. Alexis Marcussen's layup at 8:00 and ensuing free throw pushed Bellevue's advantage to 69-41. Shannel Kovalsky contributed significantly with a layup and a free throw, making it 72-41 at 7:17. Edmonds struggled to close the gap despite efforts from Ava Uusitalo and Hailey Mata, who both added points late in the quarter.

The Tritons host Skagit Valley (5-10, 1-0) on Saturday in Seaview Gym.

Edmonds Top Performers

Ava Uusitalo
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- 14 points
- 7 rebounds
- 6/10 free throws made

Darcie Gonzalez
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- 10 points
- 2 3-pointers
- 1 block

Payton Fleishman
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- 9 points
- 4 offensive rebounds
- 1 block