Utah Valley University’s women’s basketball team marked Senior Day with a 71-59 victory over Utah Tech on Saturday in the Old Hammer Rivalry. The game, held in Orem, saw senior Kylee Mabry contribute 17 points, eight rebounds—a career high—and five assists, matching her previous best.
Kaylee Borden led all scorers with 24 points for Utah Tech, including six three-pointers. All seven UVU seniors scored during the game. Amanda Barcello added 12 points and Kaylee Headrick finished with 11, giving the Wolverines three players in double figures. Halle Nelson recorded seven points, eight rebounds, and six assists.
“What a great way to end senior day with a win over an in-state rival! I thought we started slow today, but played really well in the second half, especially defensively,” said UVU head coach Dan Nielson. “I’m just grateful to our seniors for all their hard work, loyalty, and for raising the standards for our program. Now we need to keep this momentum going for next week in Vegas!”
Utah Tech opened the game strong with a 13-0 run but UVU responded to cut into the lead by the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter, Tessa Chaney helped reduce Utah Tech’s advantage further as she scored four quick points early on. UVU’s defense limited Utah Tech to only four field goals out of 17 attempts during that period.
The Wolverines took their first lead since early in the contest when Gracie Sorenson made one of two jumpers from inside the key midway through the second quarter. The teams were tied at halftime after Nelson’s layup brought it even at 30-30.
A decisive third-quarter stretch saw UVU go on a 10-0 run—with Blackham making two three-pointers—to build a nine-point lead heading into the final period. The Wolverines converted all nine of their free throws in the fourth quarter and went 19-for-25 from the line overall.
Utah Tech managed to close within four points late in the game following a three-pointer by Paige Cofer but Utah Valley answered quickly with scores from Saige Gibb and another triple by Mabry to restore a comfortable margin.
Tessa Chaney contributed seven points while playing her 100th career game; Gracie Sorenson added four points on her own Senior Day appearance.
Utah Valley will compete next week at the Air Force Reserve WAC Tournament at Orleans Arena in Las Vegas. Their bracket position and opponent will be determined after conference play concludes Saturday.
