In the team's final non-conference game of the season, the Utah State women's basketball squad faced a challenging defeat against UC Riverside. The Dee Glen Smith Spectrum witnessed a heated battle as the Highlanders showcased their shooting prowess in the first quarter, taking an early eight-point lead with four of their first six shots from beyond the 3-point line. However, the Aggies fought back with the help of senior guard Cheyenne Stubbs and freshman guard Carlie Latta, who hit crucial 3-pointers to keep the game close. Junior guard Jamisyn Heaton also played a significant role, trimming the deficit to one point twice before UC Riverside extended their lead again.

Utah State's Season Finale - A Battle on the Court

First Quarter Struggles and Comebacks

The Highlanders' hot shooting in the first quarter set the tone for the game, as they opened up an eight-point lead. But the Aggies didn't back down. Senior guard Cheyenne Stubbs and freshman guard Carlie Latta's 3-pointers kept the Aggies in the game. Junior guard Jamisyn Heaton's efforts to trim the deficit to one point showed the team's determination. However, UC Riverside's last 3-pointer of the quarter gave them a 20-16 lead going into the second.After the Highlanders extended their lead to nine points, the Aggies responded with a 6-0 burst to get back within 29-26. This showed their ability to fight back and stay in the game.

Second Half Deficit and Comeback Attempt

UC Riverside went on an 18-2 run spanning the second and third quarters, taking a commanding 47-28 lead. But the Aggies, as they have done on many occasions during non-conference play, fought back. Freshman guard Denae Skelton's 3-pointer sparked a 9-2 run, bringing the deficit back within single digits midway through the fourth quarter. This showed their resilience and never-give-up attitude.However, the Aggie comeback ran out of time as the Highlanders held on to win.

Player Performances

Junior guard Jamisyn Heaton led the Aggies with 14 points on 6-of-11 shooting, making her the team's leading scorer for the fourth time this season. She also tied for the team lead in steals with two each, along with freshman guard/forward Taliyah Logwood. Sophomore forward Gracie Johnson had an impact with six points and six rebounds, blocking two shots as well. Logwood led the team with three assists. Carlie Latta added 10 points, going 3-of-4 from the field and 2-of-3 from 3-point range.

Statistical Highlights

The Aggies shot 42.3 percent from the field (22-of-52) and 31.6 percent from behind the arc (6-of-19). They also shot 75.0 percent from the free throw lines, converting 9-of-12. The Utah State bench outscored the Highlander bench 24-17, with Skelton and junior guard Mia Tarver leading the way with eight and seven points off the bench respectively.

Up Next and Season Tickets

Utah State is now preparing to open Mountain West play against Colorado State on Sunday, Dec. 29, at 2 p.m., at the Spectrum. Season tickets for the 2024-25 schedule are available now. Fans can purchase tickets here or by calling the USU Ticket Office at (435) 797-0305.Fans can follow USU women's basketball on Twitter, @USUWBasketball, on Instagram, @USUWBasketball, as well as on Facebook, at /USUWBB. Aggie fans can also follow Utah State Athletics on Twitter, @USUAthletics, on Instagram, @USUAthletics and on Facebook at /USUAthletics.