The Portland Pilots women’s basketball team won their first-round matchup against the Sam Houston Bearkats 62-59 in the Women’s National Invitation Tournament, according to a March 19 announcement. The game was marked by a high number of turnovers, with both teams combining for 54.
This victory is significant as it marks only the second home playoff win and second WNIT win ever for the Pilots. The result advances Portland to the tournament’s second round.
Dyani Ananiev led the Pilots with 18 points and achieved a career-high six blocks. Lainey Spear contributed 14 points, nine rebounds, and three steals, while Brynn Smith added 10 points off the bench—her highest total since playing Warner Pacific. Defensively, Portland forced 24 turnovers and recorded 15 steals but also committed 30 turnovers themselves.
The game saw momentum shifts throughout. After an early lead by Sam Houston, Portland responded with a strong run to take control in the first quarter. Both teams struggled with turnovers in the second quarter, but Portland managed an eight-point run to maintain their lead at halftime. In the third quarter, Sam Houston mounted a comeback with a 12-0 run that put them ahead going into the final period. However, Portland regained momentum in the fourth quarter and held on for the win after Ananiev made two crucial free throws late in the game.
With this win, Portland will host Lamar Lady Cardinals in the second round of the WNIT at Chiles Center on Sunday, March 22.
