The University of British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds women’s basketball team delivered a commanding weekend performance, sweeping the division-leading Trinity Western Spartans in a two-game series at War Memorial Gym in Vancouver. The victories improved UBC to 8-4 in Canada West play, while dropping the Spartans to 10-4 and ending their eight-game winning streak.
On Friday, January 9, the Thunderbirds dominated from the opening tip, racing out to an 11-0 run and leading 22-8 after the first quarter. They extended the advantage to 42-22 at halftime and 62-32 after three, cruising to an 85-55 victory. UBC shot 47.1% from the field (including 6-of-15 from three) and dominated the paint with 42 points inside, plus a 50-31 rebounding edge. Jaeli Ibbetson led with 16 points and 9 rebounds, while Stella LaGrange added 14 points, Sofia Bergman 13, and Olivia Weekes 10 points with 9 boards. All 12 UBC players saw action, with 10 scoring. For Trinity Western, Myrlaine Shelvey paced the Spartans with 13 points (though some reports note 15), supported by Moriah Jansen (8 points, 4 assists, 4 steals) and Colette Van der Hoven (8 points). UBC coach Dave Taylor praised the energy and inside presence: “I loved our energy… we hit some shots.”
Saturday’s January 10 matchup was a defensive grind, with UBC prevailing 58-45 to complete the sweep. The Spartans started strong, leading 16-10 after the first quarter behind full-court pressure that forced turnovers. UBC responded aggressively in the second, taking a 33-28 halftime lead with strong free-throw shooting (8-of-9) and offensive rebounds. The Thunderbirds held firm in the second half, limiting TWU to just five points in the fourth quarter while securing a decisive win. Olivia Weekes starred with 15 points and 14 rebounds (tying her for third all-time in UBC career rebounds at 674), and Jaeli Ibbetson contributed 10 points and 9 boards. Myrlaine Shelvey again led TWU with 13 points. Coach Taylor noted the sloppier play but highlighted defensive intensity: “I loved our intensity especially defensively and that obviously won us the game.” TWU coach Cheryl Jean-Paul commended her team’s resilience and early pressure but pointed to the need for better second-half responses.
The sweep showcased UBC’s depth, defensive prowess, and ability to handle a top contender, positioning them strongly in the Pacific Division standings as the season continues.
