Box Score GREAT FALLS, Mont. – The University of Providence women's basketball program defeated Northwest University 81-52 Friday night.

The Argos (2-0) scored the first field goal of the game when graduate transfer Ashlee Maldonado took the opening tip all the way to the basket for a layup.

The Eagles (0-2) would respond with a pair of jumpers to take a 5-4 lead, but a fast break three-pointer by Maldonado gave the Argos a two-point cushion.

Midway through the first quarter, senior Maddy Dixon scored five straight and a three by Maldonado extended the Argo lead to eight.

Argos would continue to grow their lead in the second quarter going on a 26-13 run to make it 42-26. Maldonado led the way for UP in the first half with 13 points and freshman Keanna Salave'a added 10 as well.

In the second half, Salave'a scored the first seven points and a three pointer by sophomore Camryn Cartwright gave the Argos a 57-33 lead.

In the fourth quarter, graduate student Alicia Oatis and freshman Hayleigh Smith carried UP to an 8-4 run to make it 74-49.

UP would maintain their edge the rest of the way, winning the game 81-52. Salave'a led the way for UP with 17pts and 10reb. Maldonado added 13pts, 5reb, and 5ast, and Oatis had eight points of her own.

The Argos will be back in action Nov. 4 for the Holiday Inn Classic finale when they host Corban University. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. in the McLaughlin Center.