After beating a Big Sky Conference opponent for the first time this season, Weber State University’s women’s basketball team lost 57–41 against Idaho State University on Feb. 4 at the Dee Events Center.

Forward Jadyn Matthews scored early for the Wildcats in the first quarter by hitting a 2-point jump shot. Bengal forward Laura Bello responded by making a layup.

In a defensive battle, both teams combined for 18 turnovers in the quarter, with Weber State having 10 and Idaho State having 8. At the end of the first quarter, the Bengals had a 9–4 lead.

Heading into the second quarter, both offenses had an easier time getting the ball in. Shooting 50% from the field, Idaho State’s efficiency helped them edge out the Wildcats, who were only shooting 40%.

Early in the quarter, Idaho State went on a 13–3 run resulting in a double-digit lead. Outscoring the Wildcats by 8 points in the second quarter, the Bengals led 29–16 going into halftime. Both teams combined for a total of 31 turnovers in the first half.

Coming into the third quarter, both teams were able to limit their turnovers. The Bengals outscored the Wildcats by 4 points, shooting 38% to Weber State’s 21%.

The fourth quarter was the only one in which Weber State outscored Idaho State, putting up 15 points to the Bengal’s 14. The Wildcats scored most of their points in the paint and on the free-throw line.

Overall, Weber State shot 31% from the field with 24 turnovers for the entire game, Their only lead of the game was their 2–0 start with Matthew’s jumper.

Forward Daryn Hickok ended the game with 9 points, Matthews with 8 and forward Laura Taylor with 7.

The Bengals shot 39.7% for the game, with their largest lead hitting 21 points. Idaho had 15 points off of Weber State’s turnovers and 14 offensive rebounds.

Bello ended the night with a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double. Guard Callie Bourne was also able to put up double-digit figures with 12 points.

Both teams had an equal number of possessions with 68; this game came down to efficiency on the offensive end of the floor.

Weber State declined to comment on the game when asked for an interview. The Wildcats are currently 5–18 on the year and 1–9 in the Big Sky conference.

Weber State faced the University of Northern Colorado on Feb. 6, ending their home stand. They will hit the road to face Montana State University on Feb. 9 at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse.