LOGAN, Utah (Interstat) — In a game defined by offensive runs and a standout individual performance, the Utah State Aggies used a strong second half to pull away from the Omaha Mavericks for a 77-69 victory in a non-conference women’s basketball game Saturday at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum.

The Aggies improved to 2-1 on the young season, while the Mavericks fell to 1-4.

Omaha guard Sarai Estupiñan put on a spectacular display, pouring in a game-high 26 points to go along with four rebounds and six assists in 37 minutes of action. Her backcourt mate, Cora Olsen of Omaha, added 16 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Despite their efforts, the Mavericks could not sustain their early momentum against a balanced Utah State attack.

The Mavericks started strong, capitalizing on early Aggie miscues to build a 16-10 lead after the first quarter. Omaha extended its lead to nine points in the second quarter before Utah State began to chip away. A key 11-2 run by the Aggies, fueled by their perimeter shooting, brought them back into the game, and they entered halftime trailing by just four, 35-31.

The third quarter proved to be the turning point. Utah State’s offense found its rhythm, outscoring Omaha 23-20 in the period to take a 54-55 lead heading into the final frame. The Aggies continued their efficient play in the fourth, matching their third-quarter output with another 23 points to seal the victory.

Utah State’s win was a product of superior efficiency and capitalizing on opponent mistakes. Despite both teams having an identical 70 possessions, the Aggies posted an offensive rating of 110.0 compared to Omaha’s 99.2. They also outscored the Mavericks 20-13 in points off turnovers.

The Aggies showcased a potent three-point attack, connecting on 12 of 26 attempts from beyond the arc for a 46.2 percent clip. Omaha was also effective from deep, hitting 9 of 23, but it was not enough to counter Utah State’s overall offensive execution.

Utah State’s victory was a collective effort, with four players scoring in double figures. Aaliyah Gayles and Elise Livingston each scored 16 points to lead the Aggies. Livingston was particularly efficient, hitting three three-pointers. Marina Asensio added 13 points and four assists, while Karyn Sanford filled the stat sheet with 11 points, five rebounds, six assists and a block.

For Omaha, Avril Smith was a force inside, just missing a double-double with eight points and nine rebounds. Regan Juenemann provided a spark off the bench with nine points, all from three-point range.

The Aggies won the battle on the glass, securing 12 offensive rebounds to Omaha’s eight, which led to crucial second-chance opportunities. Utah State also dished out 15 assists on 26 made field goals, demonstrating effective ball movement.

An announced crowd of 1,554 watched the Aggies secure their second consecutive win after a season-opening loss to in-state rival Utah. Omaha, meanwhile, continues a challenging early-season road stretch, having now lost four of its first five games.

The Aggies look to continue their momentum on the road at Oregon State on Tuesday. Omaha returns home to host Cal State Bakersfield on Thursday.