The Utah State Eastern women's basketball team opened its 2026-27 season Friday with a 60-50 loss to Northwest College in Richfield, Utah.
The Eagles battled throughout the opening quarter, led by six points from redshirt freshman Peyton Behnke. Despite the strong start from Behnke, Eastern trailed the Trappers 17-14 after the first period.
Eastern found success at the free-throw line in the second quarter, converting five of six attempts to help the Eagles score 14 points in the period. Northwest maintained its advantage, however, taking a 32-28 lead into halftime. Behnke led Eastern with eight first-half points.
The Eagles opened the second half with two quick baskets to tie the game at 32. Northwest responded with a 10-2 run to regain control, and Eastern entered the fourth quarter trailing 47-38.
Behnke added six points in the final period as the Eagles attempted to close the gap. However, the Trappers outscored Eastern 13-12 in the fourth quarter to secure the 60-50 victory.
Behnke was the lone Eagle to score in double figures, finishing with a team-high 14 points. Keira Hester contributed seven points and six rebounds for Eastern.
The Eagles were originally scheduled to face Community Christian College on Saturday, but the game has been canceled.
Eastern will return to action Friday, Nov. 6, at the Coca-Cola Classic, hosted by the College of Southern Idaho. The Eagles will face Treasure Valley Community College on Friday before taking on Dawson Community College on Saturday, Nov. 7.
