Bears Drop Non-Conference Finale Against Sam Houston

Monday, December 22

Huntsville, TX

11 a.m. MST | 12 p.m. CDT

University of Northern Colorado

9-4,0-0Big Sky

Sam Houston

6-4,0-0CUSA

Northern Colo.

Sam Houston

12/22/2025 1:25:00 PM | Women's Basketball

Box Score

By: Elian Soto, Assistant Director of Strategic Communications

HUNTSVILLE, Texas. – Northern Colorado women's basketball wrapped up its non-conference schedule Monday afternoon, traveling to Texas to face Sam Houston. The Bears battled throughout the contest but ultimately came up short, falling 65–56 to the Bearkats. Three Bears finished the game scoring in double figures.

The first quarter opened with both offenses struggling to find rhythm, as possessions were marked by stagnant movement and contested shot attempts.

Despite the slow start, the Bears controlled the tempo of the game by crashing the glass, getting deflections on defense, and capitalizing on timely scoring opportunities. Their defensive pressure forced multiple Bearkat turnovers, helping them maintain control of the pace. The Bears effort on both ends of the floor resulted in a 14–9 lead after the first quarter.

In the second quarter, UNC's defensive intensity continued to set the tone, carrying over from the opening frame. While the offense still faced challenges finding consistent scoring, the Bears remained in control of the game and held a three-point lead at the media break. Heather Baymon provided a major spark off the bench, leading the team offensively with 12 points while shooting a perfect 5-for-5 from the field in the first half.

The Bears balanced effort on both ends allowed them to take a 27–21 advantage into the break.

Coming out of the halftime break, the Bearkats rallied early in the third quarter and cut UNC's lead to 41-40. Gabi Fields halted the momentum with a much-needed three-pointer, briefly pushing the advantage in favor of the Bears. Tatum West also made a significant impact on both ends of the floor, collecting seven rebounds before subbing out due to foul trouble.

Sam Houston continued to apply pressure by attacking driving lanes and drawing fouls, capitalizing at the free-throw line to once again cut the Bears lead advantage heading into the final frame.

In the fourth quarter, Northern Colorado applied pressure to the Bearkats' defense by attacking the rim and earning trips to the free-throw line to build on its momentum.
However, Sam Houston responded with a run of its own to take a 46–45 lead, forcing the Bears to call a timeout.

The Bearkats began to create separation late in the fourth quarter, pulling ahead down the stretch. Despite a late push by the Bears, the rally fell short as Sam Houston held on to secure the 65–56 victory.

The Bears received a strong contribution from their bench, outscoring Sam Houston's bench 24–7 over the course of four quarters.

UP NEXT: The Bears will enjoy a short break over Christmas before returning to the court to start Big Sky Conference play on January 1, when the Bears host Montana State. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m. MT.

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