Preview: Gonzaga Women Set for Road Test at Seattle

SEATTLE (Interstat) — The Gonzaga Bulldogs, riding a five-game winning streak, will look to continue their momentum against the struggling Seattle Redhawks in a nonconference women’s basketball game Friday at Redhawk Center.

The Bulldogs (10-5) enter the new year in strong form, having last played on Tuesday in a 75-52 rout of Pepperdine. Seattle (4-8) seeks to halt a four-game skid after a 94-65 loss at Santa Clara that same night.

Gonzaga’s surge has been fueled by efficient offense and the standout play of guard Lauren Whittaker. The sophomore is averaging 20.3 points over her last seven games, including a 22-point performance in just 22 minutes against Pepperdine. She is shooting 54% from the field during that stretch. Whittaker is supported by a balanced lineup; Allie Turner added 17 points and four assists in the last outing, while Jaiden Haile scored 21.

The Redhawks will counter with guard Tamia Stricklin, their most consistent scorer. She is averaging 15.3 points over her last three games, including 17 points against Santa Clara. Seattle will need a stronger defensive effort after allowing an average of 83.5 points during its losing streak.

Historically, Gonzaga has dominated the series, winning 15 consecutive meetings. The Bulldogs’ current streak has featured both high-scoring affairs, like an 87-80 double-overtime win over Loyola Marymount, and defensive stands, holding three of their last five opponents under 65 points.

For Seattle, Friday’s game opens a challenging January slate that includes games against Washington State and Oregon State. Gonzaga begins West Coast Conference play on Sunday at Santa Clara.

Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. PST at Redhawk Center.