Stanford’s Stunning Fourth-Quarter Surge Topples No. 22 Washington

The Stanford Cardinal women’s basketball team delivered a massive statement on Friday night. They upset the 22nd-ranked Washington Huskies 67-62. The game was played at a neutral site in San Francisco. This crucial Pac-12 victory could finally push Stanford into the national rankings.

According to the Associated Press, the win gives Stanford its first signature triumph of the season. The team had been on the bubble of the Top 25 for weeks. Their relentless fourth-quarter performance proved they belong with the conference’s best.

Defensive Grit Seals Dramatic Comeback Win

The game was a tense battle from the start. Both teams were locked at 27-27 heading into halftime. Washington seized momentum in the third quarter. Guard Sayvia Sellers scored ten points in the period to help build an eight-point lead.

Stanford’s comeback began with defensive intensity. They held Washington to just 12 points in the final quarter. The Huskies shot a meager 35.7% from the field during that span. Stanford also forced eight critical turnovers down the stretch.

Head coach Kate Paye credited her team’s conditioning. She said it allows them to finish games strong. That stamina was clearly on display in the final minutes.

Key Plays and Unsung Heroes Fuel Victory

The Cardinal erased the deficit quickly in the fourth quarter. A Hailee Swain layup tied the game with over six minutes left. The momentum shifted decisively after a flagrant foul on Washington’s Sellers. That gave Stanford free throws and possession.

Despite Washington tying the game late, Stanford’s effort on the glass was decisive. They collected crucial offensive rebounds to burn clock and create extra chances. This effort sealed the win in the final seconds.

Five-star freshman Lara Somfai led Stanford with 14 points and six rebounds. Courtney Ogden added 12 points and seven boards. However, the spark came from reserve Shay Ijiwoje. She provided intense energy off the bench, finishing with a team-high +13 rating.

Stanford’s upset over Washington provides a clear path toward a national ranking. Their next test comes quickly against Oregon this Sunday.

Info at your fingertips

What was the final score of the Stanford vs. Washington game?

The Stanford Cardinal defeated the No. 22 Washington Huskies by a score of 67-62. The win came in a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback at a neutral site in San Francisco.

How did Stanford perform in the fourth quarter?

Stanford outscored Washington 25-12 in the final period. Their defense was stellar, holding the Huskies to poor shooting and forcing multiple turnovers to secure the win.

Who were the standout players for Stanford?

Freshman Lara Somfai led with 14 points. Courtney Ogden scored 12 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Reserve Shay Ijiwoje provided a major energy boost with a +13 plus/minus rating.

What does this win mean for Stanford’s season?

This is Stanford’s first win over a ranked opponent this season. It serves as a crucial resume booster and could finally earn them a spot in the national Top 25 rankings.

When is Stanford’s next game?

Stanford plays the Oregon Ducks on Sunday. Tip-off is scheduled for 3 p.m. PT in San Francisco as part of the Invisalign Bay Area Women’s Classic. The game will air on ESPN.

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