Eastern Oregon women drop first game, fall 67-43 at Southern Oregon

Eastern Oregon University's women's basketball team saw its undefeated start come to an end Saturday night, falling 67-43 on the road to Southern Oregon. The loss exposed offensive inconsistency and ball-security problems that could shape the Mountaineers' push through conference play, while offering local fans a glimpse of areas needing attention as Union County rallies behind its squad.

Eastern Oregon opened with early aggression, carrying a brief lead through the first five points, but the offense stalled in the opening quarter. The Mountaineers made just 3-of-14 field-goal attempts and were 1-of-6 at the free-throw line, managing seven points in the period. Southern Oregon seized momentum midway through the quarter and led 14-7 after the opening frame.

EOU found better rhythm in the second quarter, converting 45.5 percent of its shots and knocking down a pair of three-pointers. Southern Oregon, however, built its largest advantage five minutes into the quarter, stretching the lead to 14. Eastern Oregon chipped away late in the half behind Kelsie Siegner, closing the gap to 32-23 at halftime. By the break Siegner had reached double figures and recorded two steals and a block.

The Raiders asserted control after halftime, using turnovers and trips to the free-throw line to open a decisive third quarter. Eastern Oregon shot 26.7 percent in the period and committed six turnovers, five of which turned into points for Southern Oregon. The Raiders also converted on free-throw opportunities, extending the lead to 22.

The fourth quarter followed a similar script as Southern Oregon continued to dominate inside and force mistakes. Eastern Oregon committed six more turnovers in the final frame, four of which resulted in points for the Raiders. Southern Oregon outscored EOU 10-4 in the paint during the period and pushed the lead to as many as 24 before closing out the 67-43 victory.

Individually, Siegner led the Mountaineers with a strong all-around performance, finishing with 15 points, 11 rebounds, four blocks and three steals. Maggie Smith added 13 points and a steal. Despite the setback, Eastern Oregon remains No. 1 in the conference, a position that keeps conference title hopes intact but leaves little margin for error.

For Union County, the result matters beyond the box score. Local support at Quinn Coliseum and community investment in visibility and resources for women's sports help shape team resilience and morale as student-athletes balance academics and competition. Eastern Oregon returns home Friday, January 16 to host Corban University, with tip-off set for 5:30 p.m. PT, a chance for the Mountaineers to regroup in front of their home crowd.

Our two cents? Come out to Quinn Coliseum, back the Mountaineers, and expect a cleaner offensive night: fewer turnovers, more free throws, and a louder Union County crowd can make a difference.