EC women close out Whatcom to win second straight

LYNNWOOD, Wash. — Edmonds (6-11, 2-3) defeated Whatcom (3-14, 1-4), 59-52, on Wednesday with a strong performance from the charity stripe, converting 18 of 22 attempts. Edmonds built their largest lead of 10 points midway through the second quarter and maintained control throughout the game.

Edmonds opened the game effectively, utilizing a strong performance at the free-throw line and solid defensive efforts to maintain control. Ava Uusitalo contributed significantly with free throws, while Hailey Mata's layup, assisted by Uusitalo, set the tone early. Despite Whatcom's attempts to close the gap, the Tritons' defense, highlighted by Darcie Gonzalez's block and Payton Fleishman's steal, helped maintain the lead. The quarter concluded with Edmonds leading 14-7.

Edmonds sustained their lead during the second quarter, highlighted by a strong start with Jocelyn Tamayo's 3-pointer assisted by Fleishman at the 10:00 mark. Despite offensive challenges, Edmonds effectively maintained their advantage through strategic free throws, including Mata's successful attempts at 6:05, which expanded their lead. As the quarter concluded, the Tritons held a 30–24 lead over Whatcom, continuing their solid performance from the first half.

Edmonds extended their lead early in the third quarter, highlighted by Gonzalez's 3-pointer at 7:16, assisted by Kiani Hoolulu, pushing the score to 35-28. Uusitalo's consistent presence in the paint and on the free-throw line helped maintain the home team's advantage. Despite Whatcom's efforts to close the gap, including a late layup by Isla Kelly, Edmonds preserved their lead, ending the quarter up 42-38.

Taylor Blancaflor initiated the fourth quarter with a steal that set the tone for Edmonds. Uusitalo's two successful free throws at 8:15 pushed the Tritons' lead, which was extended by Fleishman's 3-pointer at 7:59, assisted by Tamayo. Although Whatcom briefly took the lead, Tamayo's 3-pointer at 3:32 reclaimed it for Edmonds. The team maintained their momentum with Gonzalez's free throws at 1:41 widening the gap. A layup by Fleishman at 1:01 put the game out of reach. 

Uusitalo led the scoring with 13 points, converting 11 of 12 free throws. Gonzalez contributed 15 points, hitting three 3-pointers and recording two blocks. Tamayo added 12 points, all from beyond the arc with four 3-pointers. Fleishman finished with nine points, including one 3-pointer, while grabbing seven rebounds.

A rivalry matchup is up next for the Tritons when they visit Everett (4-15, 0-5) on Saturday. Tip off is set for 4 p.m. at the Walt Price Fitness Center.