SPOKANE, Wash. — Eastern Oregon University (RV) Women's Basketball opened the 2026-27 season Saturday afternoon at the Northwest Crossover Classic, falling 55-45 to No. 24 Carroll College (Mont.) despite a strong fourth-quarter push.
The Mountaineers started quickly, with
Kali Kast scoring the game's opening basket off an assist from
Avery Peterson.
Katelyn Hamilton followed with a three-pointer, and Kast added two free throws to help Eastern Oregon build an early 7-2 advantage. Carroll responded with defensive pressure and timely baskets, eventually taking an 11-8 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Carroll continued to build their advantage in the second quarter, limiting Eastern Oregon to eight points in the period. The Saints extended their lead to 25-16 at halftime, taking advantage of Mountaineer turnovers and holding EOU to just 23.1% shooting in the quarter.
The third quarter proved decisive. Carroll found their rhythm offensively, scoring 20 points while knocking down three three-pointers. Maddy Moy and Kennedi Niemann helped lead the Saints' surge, as Carroll stretched their advantage to 45-29 heading into the final period.
Eastern Oregon showed resilience in the fourth quarter, outscoring Carroll 16-10.
Addy Laible sparked the comeback attempt with an efficient scoring performance, finishing through contact and repeatedly attacking the basket.
Ellie Markus added a fast-break layup late in the game, helping the Mountaineers cut the deficit to eight at 53-45 with seconds remaining. Carroll held on from the free-throw line to secure the 10-point victory.
Laible led Eastern Oregon with 12 points off the bench, shooting 5-of-7 from the field while adding three blocks and four rebounds. Kast finished with 10 points, nine rebounds and four assists, while
Reigha Niemeyer contributed seven points and six rebounds. Eastern Oregon struggled from beyond the arc, making just one of 17 attempts.
Despite the loss, Eastern Oregon finished strong in the fourth quarter and will look to build on that effort as the Mountaineers continue play at the Northwest Crossover Classic tomorrow, facing MSU-Northern at 12 pm PT.
