PORTLAND, Ore. 0 November 2, 2026 1 The Pepperdine Waves women’s basketball team opened their 2026-27 season with a 59-43 road victory against the Portland State Vikings at Viking Pavilion. The Waves’ defense played a crucial role, limiting Portland State to only 5 points in both the second and third quarters.
Graduate center Maggie Mendelson spearheaded the effort with her first career double-double, tallying 17 points, 17 rebounds, and 4 blocks. The team collectively recorded 10 blocks, the highest total since November 2024.
Guard Seleh Harmon contributed 13 points, including one three-pointer, while Taija Sta. Maria added 11 points. Elli Guiney secured 7 rebounds and 3 blocks, bolstering the defensive performance. Pepperdine made just over 41 percent of its field goals but struggled beyond the arc, converting only 2 of 13 three-point attempts. The Waves compensated by scoring 40 points in the paint.
Freshmen Evelyn Martyn, Freya Bijkerk, and Landrie Callahan made their collegiate debuts, with Martyn and Callahan scoring their first college baskets. Head coach Katie Faulkner praised her team’s defensive effort and emphasized a culture rooted in growth moving forward.
Pepperdine hosts its home opener versus UC Santa Barbara on November 5 at 5 p.m., with the game streaming live on ESPN+.
CSB Take
This season-opening road victory highlights Pepperdine’s defensive identity as a foundation for success. Maggie Mendelson’s breakout double-double underscores the importance of veteran leadership, while contributions from freshmen add valuable depth. Sustaining this defensive intensity will be essential as the Waves transition to home court and prepare for conference competition.
Source: Original report
More coverage: Pepperdine Waves.
