GILBERT, Ariz. – The University of Providence women's basketball program defeated Park University Gilbert (AZ) 85-74 Friday night.

The Buccaneers (3-3) scored the first basket of the game, but an 11-0 run from the Argos (3-2) behind three-pointers from senior Ashlee Maldonado and sophomore Monique Carter put UP ahead 11-2.

The Argos would maintain that edge the rest of the quarter as UP ended the first leading 19-8.

UP started the second quarter with a layup from sophomore Taliah Lee, and following a basket from Park Gilbert, layups from sophomore Keanna Salave'a and Maldonado pushed the Argo lead out to 17.

The Buccaneers slowly cut into the Argo lead the rest of the half as UP led 34-28 heading into the break.

The second half was back and forth early until a pair of jumpers from Lee gave the Argos a 45-36 lead midway through the third.

The Argos would hold their lead the rest of the quarter with a three from Carter with one second remaining, increasing UP's advantage to 10 heading into the fourth.

The Argos scored the first two baskets of the fourth and despite late pressure from the Buccaneers the Argos cruised to an 85-74 victory. Maldonado led the way with 20 points, eight assists, seven rebounds, and three steals while senior Kolby Pimperton and sophomore Eliannah Ramirez added 18 and 15, respectively.  

The Argos will be back in action Saturday, Nov. 16, when they head to Mesa, Ariz. Tip-off is scheduled for Noon versus Benedictine University Mesa.