Maye Tour Milestone, Gavin Peterson's First Win Highlights Utah's Thrilling OT Victory

SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah women's basketball team put together an unforgettable performance in a 72-71 overtime victory against the St. Joseph Hawks on Wednesday night at the Huntsman Center.

The game marked several milestones, including Maye Toure surpassing 1,000 career points and Gavin Peterson's first win as the Utes' head coach.

“Despite the changes, everything we've worked for and talked about is still in front of us,” Peterson said. “I'm very excited about this group and this team.”

The Utes opened the game with a balanced offense and stifling defense, taking a 16-7 lead after the first quarter. By halftime, Utah held control with a 34-27 advantage.

But the Hawks came back in the third quarter and closed the gap to 48-42 behind outstanding performances from Laura Ziegler (20 points, 12 rebounds) and Gabby Casey (21 points).

In a tense overtime period, Utah's Gianna Knipkens, who scored 14 points for the game, fouled out, leaving the team without its key offensive leader.

But Kennedy McQueen (14 points) and Toure stepped up in key moments, including Toure's game-winning jumper in the paint to seal the victory for the Utes. Toure finished with 12 points, nine rebounds and three blocks.

Point guard Ines Vieira was also instrumental in the win, facilitating the offense with five assists, two steals and 7 points.

The win was a testament to the Utes' defensive prowess and ability to execute in high-pressure moments. Utah's defense held St. Joseph to just 27 first-half points, setting the tone for a gritty finish.

Now riding a two-game winning streak, the Utes (4-1) return to the Huntsman Center on Sunday to host Montana State. Meanwhile, St. Joseph's (4-1) will hit the road on the road to face St. Francis and Villanova.