Lumberjacks Prepare for Grand Canyon in Final Non-Conference Game

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (Dec. 27, 2024) — The Northern Arizona University (NAU) women's basketball team is set to resume competition after a holiday break, as they gear up to face in-state rival Grand Canyon University (GCU) on Sunday, Dec. 29. The game will take place at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix, Arizona, starting at 2 p.m. Mountain Standard Time and will be broadcasted live on ESPN+.

This matchup marks the conclusion of the Lumberjacks' non-conference schedule, with NAU currently boasting a 9-3 record for the season. GCU, on the other hand, enters the game with an impressive 11-2 record, maintaining a perfect 9-0 at home. The two teams have a longstanding rivalry, with NAU leading the all-time series 6-4. Even so, GCU has triumphed in four of the last five meetings, highlighting a competitive history that fans look forward to.

Recent Performance and Series History

The last time these teams met was during the 2021-22 season when NAU secured a victory in Flagstaff. Historically, most encounters have occurred on NAU's home turf, although GCU leads their home series, winning two of the three meetings there since 2010. The Lumberjacks have not emerged victorious in a road matchup against GCU since 1989-90, a streak they are eager to break this Sunday.

Grand Canyon heads into this game with a nine-game winning streak, which includes a thrilling victory over Arizona with a final score of 69-66. Notably, both teams have faced Arizona recently, with NAU valuably defeating the Wildcats 92-75 at home in November. The Lopes’ offensive efforts have been particularly noteworthy, averaging 76.8 points per game while ranking 19th nationally in field goal percentage at an impressive 48.4%.

Key Players to Watch

GCU’s offense is led by Alyssa Durazo-Frescas, who has demonstrated remarkable skill beyond the arc, ranking second in the nation with 48 three-pointers this season at a 45.7% clip. Laura Erikstrup has also been pivotal, holding 25th place nationwide in field goal percentage (58.2%). Moreover, Tiarra Brown has showcased her defensive prowess with 37 steals, ranking her 15th nationally.

Meanwhile, Northern Arizona’s Sophie Glancey has garnered attention for her outstanding performances, achieving her eighth double-double of the season with a season-high 26 points and 10 rebounds in their last outing against Fresno State. She leads the Lumberjacks with an impressive average of 18.0 points per game, ranking sixth in the nation.

The Lumberjacks also feature Taylor Feldman, who averages 15.2 points, and Nyah Moran, contributing 15.0 points per game. NAU stands out in the Big Sky conference, leading with 81.8 points per game while also placing high in several other statistics, including three-pointers made per game (8.6) and assists per game (16.83).

Looking Ahead

As NAU prepares to clash with Grand Canyon, this game is vital for setting the tone before they dive into Big Sky Conference play. Following this matchup, the Lumberjacks will face Idaho State on January 2, followed by a game against Weber State on January 4.

With both teams eager for victory, fans can anticipate an exciting showdown as the Lumberjacks aim to conclude their non-conference play with a strong performance against their in-state rivals.

Related Topics: Northern Arizona University, Women’s Basketball, NCAA, Grand Canyon University.

Game Details:
Date: Sunday, Dec. 29
Time: 2 p.m. MST
Location: Global Credit Union Arena, Phoenix, AZ
Broadcast: ESPN+

Players Mentioned:

• #5 Taylor Feldman (G, 5' 8”, Sophomore)
• #12 Sophie Glancey (F, 6' 2”, Sophomore)
• #2 Nyah Moran (G/F, 5' 11”, Junior)
• #22 Olivia Moran (G/F, 5' 11”, Junior)
• #33 Saniyah Neverson (F, 6' 1”, Sophomore)