Box Score TAYLORSVILLE, Utah (January 17, 2019) - Entering a battle with the top team in the Scenic West Athletic Conference, the No. 15 Salt Lake Community College women's basketball team knew they would need a little extra pep in their respective steps.

The Bruins showcased their exuberance in returning to the floor of the Lifetime Activities Center Thursday, earning a dominating 72-52 victory over in-state rival USU Eastern, who was previously unbeaten in league play. Salt Lake controlled the glass and the paint, pushing their overall record to 17-3 with a league record of 3-1.

Bruins coach Betsy Specketer said it was an impressive performance for her team.

"I thought we came out with great energy tonight, especially on the defensive end," she said. "We were really dialed in defensively and our offense fed off that energy. I thought the first quarter was some of the best basketball we've played all year."

SLCC controlled from the get-go, opening on a 4-0 run that stretched into a 23-7 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Bruins would never trail in the game, leading by as many as 25 points late in the game. Salt Lake also held a 45-30 advantage in rebounds, including a 14-6 edge in offensive rebounds.

One reason for Salt Lake's dominance on the boards was reigning NJCAA Player-of-the-Week Lauren Gustin, who finished with another double-double of 21 points and 15 rebounds. She also added four assists to the tally in 34 minutes. Emma Villas-Gomis continued her strong run with 17 points in a game-high 38 minutes. Miki'ala Maio also had an impressive night, scoring 16 points with two three-point baskets. Hazel Fui finished with 11 points.

In a rare statistical note, Salt Lake had no bench points on the night. The Bruins also had no fast-break points, also a rarity for a winning team. 

The Bruins will take Saturday off this week, setting up for a two-game swing next week. Salt Lake will host Colorado Northwestern on Thursday, with a game at Snow College on Jan. 26.