October 11, 2025

Grand Canyon University Women’s Basketball Team Starts Conference Strong

Phoenix, AZ, October 11, 2025

The Grand Canyon University women’s basketball team kicked off their Mountain West Conference season with a solid 68-55 victory against Utah Valley. After trailing at halftime, the Lopes showcased their resilience, led by Jada Howerton’s 22 points. The team’s effective defensive adjustments and strong rebounding helped them regain control and secure the win at home, improving their overall record to 5-1. Coach Molly Goodenbour praised the team’s adaptability and preparedness for the challenges ahead, setting the stage for a competitive season.

Grand Canyon University Women’s Basketball Team Starts Mountain West Conference with Convincing Win

Phoenix, AZ – The Grand Canyon University women’s basketball team launched their Mountain West Conference season with a decisive 68-55 victory over Utah Valley on Saturday night. This win marks a strong opening to conference play for the Lopes, highlighting their ability to adjust and dominate in the second half despite an early struggle.

The game, played at GCU’s home arena in Phoenix, saw the team overcome a halftime deficit of 25-28. A focused effort after the break propelled them to a comfortable lead, fueled by sharp shooting and defensive adjustments. This performance improves GCU’s overall record to 5-1 and their conference standing to 1-0, positioning them well for upcoming challenges.

Key to the turnaround was guard Jada Howerton, who led all scorers with 22 points. She proved especially effective from beyond the arc, sinking four three-pointers that sparked the team’s offensive surge. Alongside her scoring, forward Taylor Reiss delivered a solid all-around game, posting 14 points and 10 rebounds for her first double-double of the season. These contributions helped the Lopes control the tempo and build momentum.

Defensive Standout and Rebounding Edge

GCU’s defense stepped up significantly in the second half, tightening their perimeter coverage to limit Utah Valley’s scoring opportunities. This shift not only stifled the Wolverines’ offense but also allowed the Lopes to dominate the boards. The team outrebounded their opponents 42-31, giving them second-chance points and control inside the paint. Such rebounding prowess underscores GCU’s physical presence, a critical factor in adapting to the conference’s demanding style of play.

The Lopes’ ability to manage turnovers was another highlight. Newcomer point guard Kori Stevenson dished out eight assists while keeping mistakes to a minimum, ensuring smooth ball movement and efficient scoring chances. These elements combined to create a cohesive team effort that overwhelmed Utah Valley after the intermission.

Coach’s Perspective and Team Adaptability

Head coach Molly Goodenbour pointed to the team’s quick adaptation as a cornerstone of the victory. Facing the physicality of Mountain West competition for the first time, GCU showed resilience by shaking off a sluggish start. The squad’s preparation for this level of intensity appears to be paying off, as they transitioned seamlessly from non-conference games to this more rugged conference matchup.

The win drew an enthusiastic crowd of over 2,500 fans, whose energy added to the home-court advantage. Athletics director Jim Kolaitis acknowledged the supportive atmosphere, noting how it boosted the players’ performance. With several key transfers blending effectively into the lineup, the team looks primed for success in the broader Tucson-area college sports scene, where local rivalries and regional play often heighten the stakes.

Looking Ahead: Road Challenges and Season Outlook

This victory sets the stage for a tough road trip, starting with San Diego State. GCU will need to maintain this level of execution away from home, where crowd support shifts to the opponents. The team’s early conference success suggests they have the depth and versatility to compete, especially with players like Howerton and Reiss leading the charge.

Overall, the Lopes’ performance reflects a program on the rise. Their 5-1 start indicates strong momentum heading into a grueling schedule. By emphasizing defense, rebounding, and smart playmaking, GCU is establishing itself as a contender in the Mountain West Conference. As the season progresses, these foundational strengths could carry them far, both in league play and potential postseason opportunities.

In the context of regional college athletics, this result adds excitement to the Tucson-area landscape. Grand Canyon University’s growing presence in women’s basketball aligns with the area’s rich tradition of competitive sports, drawing attention from fans across Arizona. The team’s integration of new talent and focus on adaptability position them to make waves in the coming weeks.

Background on the Program and Conference Shift

Grand Canyon University’s women’s basketball team, known as the Antelopes or Lopes, has been building steadily since transitioning to NCAA Division I. Joining the Mountain West Conference this season brings new opportunities and tests against established programs like Utah Valley and San Diego State. Prior to this game, GCU had shown promise in non-conference action, but this win validates their readiness for the jump in competition.

The Mountain West is known for its balanced play and physical demands, which GCU navigated effectively here. With a mix of returning starters and impactful transfers, the roster brings experience and fresh energy. Howerton’s shooting touch, Reiss’s versatility, and Stevenson’s court vision are just a few examples of how the team’s pieces are fitting together.

As they head into the road trip, the Lopes carry confidence from this home opener. The 68-55 final score may not tell the full story of their second-half dominance, but it clearly signals potential. For a program aiming to climb the conference standings, this result is a promising first step.

FAQ

What was the final score of the Grand Canyon University women’s basketball game against Utah Valley?

The Grand Canyon University women’s basketball team opened Mountain West play with a 68-55 victory over Utah Valley in Phoenix.

Who led the scoring for Grand Canyon University in the game?

Guard Jada Howerton scored a game-high 22 points, including four three-pointers, fueling a second-half surge.

How did Grand Canyon University perform in rebounding?

GCU outrebounded the Wolverines 42-31, controlling the paint effectively.

What is Grand Canyon University’s record after this win?

This win boosts GCU to 5-1 overall and 1-0 in the MW.

What’s next for the Grand Canyon University team?

setting up a challenging road trip to San Diego State.

How many fans attended the game?

Athletics director Jim Kolaitis commended the crowd’s energy, drawing over 2,500 fans.

Key Game Statistics

Category	GCU	Utah Valley
Final Score	68	55
Rebounds	42	31
Leading Scorer (Points)	Jada Howerton (22)	Not specified
Double-Doubles	Taylor Reiss (14 pts, 10 reb)	None
Assists (Key Player)	Kori Stevenson (8)	Not specified
Halftime Score	25	28