Stanford Honors VanDerveer with Dominant 89-58 Win Over Gonzaga
STANFORD, Calif. – Stanford (3-0) marked the debut of Tara VanDerveer Court at Maples Pavilion with a powerful display, defeating Gonzaga 89-58. The game served as both a tribute to the recently retired coaching legend and an illustration of head coach Kate Paye’s balanced and deep roster in her third game as Stanford’s leader.
“It was a really special day, obviously, with the court naming ceremony,” Paye said. “The best way we could honor Tara on a day like today is to play really well.”
Stanford did just that, showcasing a balanced offensive approach and stifling defense that kept Gonzaga (1-1), which upset them last December, on their heels. Stanford’s deep roster proved invaluable, with 10 players contributing points, including 41 off the bench.
A Blazing First Quarter for the Cardinal
Stanford opened the game with a 10-0 run, establishing a defensive intensity that set the tone. The Cardinal’s efficient shooting—50% from the field—allowed them to build a commanding 26-4 lead by the end of the first quarter. Sophomore forward Nunu Agara and senior guard Elena Bosgana led the scoring surge with seven points each, while Gonzaga struggled, managing only 15.4% from the floor.
Gonzaga Fights Back, but Stanford Stays Steady
Gonzaga improved offensively in the second quarter, scoring 20 points with contributions from freshman guard Allie Turner and sophomore forward McKynnlie Dalan. Despite the Bulldogs’ efforts, Stanford’s relentless offense, including three-pointers from redshirt junior guard Jzaniya Harriel and sophomore guard Chloe Clardy, extended the Cardinal’s lead to 48-24 by halftime. By the break, Stanford’s efficiency was clear as they hit 58.3% from three-point range and maintained a perfect 7-for-7 from the free-throw line.
Bench Power: Cardinal Depth Extends the Lead
In the third quarter, Stanford’s bench provided critical support, with sophomore forward Mary Ashley Stevenson adding six points. Stanford’s defensive pressure intensified, holding Gonzaga to just nine points on 18.8% shooting. This quarter highlighted Stanford’s depth and cohesion as Paye rotated players to maintain defensive intensity and scoring efficiency. The Cardinal’s lead swelled to 67-33 by the end of the period.
Closing Strong: Stanford Seals Victory
Though Gonzaga outscored Stanford in the fourth, 25-22, the game’s outcome was never in question. Stanford’s continued three-point success, finishing with 54.2% beyond the arc, further cemented their control. Leading scorer Agara finished with 16 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks. Bosgana added 12 points and five rebounds. Harriel also had 12 points, Clardy contributed 11, and Stevenson had nine.
For Gonzaga, Turner finished with 18 points, including four three-pointers, and fifth-year forward Yvonne Ejim scored 12 points and pulled down eight rebounds.
Key Contributors and Depth Advantage
Stanford’s bench added 41 points, underscoring the team’s depth. Junior guard Tess Heal and Stevenson provided timely scoring from the bench. The Cardinal outscored Gonzaga 34-20 in the paint, emphasizing their physical presence. Stanford also turned Gonzaga’s 18 turnovers into 16 points, showcasing their defensive effectiveness.
“We know that Gonzaga is an excellent team,” said Paye. “This is a long-time series, and every year it makes our team better, win or lose.”
In her third game at the helm, Paye has led Stanford to a 3-0 start, including wins over Washington State and Le Moyne. The team looks stronger with each outing.
With the unveiling of VanDerveer Court, Paye reflected on the honor and its meaning: “What an incredible honor, and a deserved honor… She’s iconic. She’s a legend.”
