Gonzaga Bulldogs dominate opening game at Betty Chancellor Classic

Photo courtesy of Gonzaga Sports Communication Department, Used with permission.

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

KATY, TEXAS (November 24, 2023) Gonzaga's women's basketball team showcased an impressive performance in their opening game at the Betty Chancellor Classic, securing a commanding 102-59 victory over the Liberty Flames. The Bulldogs' stellar offensive display, particularly their three-point shooting, set the tone for a memorable night at the Merrell Center.

The entire starting lineup for Gonzaga made significant contributions, with all players scoring in double figures. Kayleigh Truong led the charge with a team-high and career-high 25 points, shooting an impressive 8-for-9 from the floor. Eliza Hollingsworth wasn't far behind, achieving a career-high of her own with 22 points, connecting on 7-of-13 attempts.

The first quarter saw Truong's explosive start, accumulating 14 points and propelling the Zags to a commanding 28-11 lead. The Bulldogs continued their dominance in the second quarter, heading into halftime with a 55-31 lead. Hollingsworth's 13 points in the second quarter contributed significantly to Gonzaga's offensive prowess, shooting at an impressive 52.6 percent and holding Liberty to 36.8 percent.

Gonzaga's relentless offensive onslaught continued in the third quarter, highlighted by an impressive 7-0 run. Yvonne Ejim took charge, leading the team with eight points in the quarter, while Brynna Maxwell and Hollingsworth added six points each. The Zags made their mark from beyond the arc, sinking eight three-pointers at a remarkable 61.5 percent.

The Bulldogs sealed the game with 12 more points, reaching the 100-point mark for the first time since 2016. They also tied a school record with 17 made three-pointers in a single game. Hollingsworth and Kaylynne Truong both contributed four threes, while Kayleigh Truong led with five.

Defensively, Gonzaga showcased its prowess by holding Liberty to 36.2 percent shooting and forcing 12 turnovers. The Bulldogs dominated the boards, outrebounding the Lady Flames 37-23, with Ejim securing eight rebounds. Kaylynne Truong displayed her playmaking skills, dishing out a team-high eight assists.

The victory marked several milestones for the Zags, including tying the program record for made three-pointers and surpassing the 100-point mark for the first time in years. Kayleigh Truong's 25 points and Hollingsworth's 22 points set new career highs.

Looking ahead, Gonzaga faces Alabama in their next matchup on November 25 at 11:15 a.m. Pacific Time. This will be the first-ever meeting between the two programs in women's basketball history.

Liberty, on the other hand, faced its third consecutive loss, falling to 2-3 for the season. Despite solid performances from Bella Smuda and Emma Hess, the Lady Flames couldn't contain Gonzaga's offensive firepower.