BREAKING: The Stanford Cardinal triumphed over the Oregon Ducks in a heart-stopping finish at the 2025 Invisalign Bay Area Women’s Classic, held at the Chase Center in San Francisco on December 21, 2025. Stanford clawed back from a double-digit deficit, driven by a standout performance from Courtney Ogden, who scored 20 points and showcased her rising confidence on the court.
The Cardinal faced an uphill battle after Oregon surged ahead, but Stanford’s resilience shone through in the crucial fourth quarter. Coach Kate Paye praised her team’s tenacity, stating, “It was not pretty out there, but winners find a way to win. We’re kind of the fourth quarter kids, and I’m really proud of this team.”
Ogden’s performance was pivotal, as she used a mix of spin moves and step-back jumpers to dominate the game, finishing with 8-of-18 shooting and four rebounds. This victory marks a significant moment for Ogden, who is experiencing a breakout season after starting just one game last year. She is now averaging 9.2 points per game with an impressive shooting percentage of 61.8%.
As the game progressed, Oregon took a narrow lead in the third quarter, but back-to-back jumpers from Ogden regained Stanford’s momentum. The Cardinal propelled ahead with a strong start to the fourth quarter, outscoring Oregon 15-7. Key contributions from guard Hailee Swain helped maintain the lead, culminating in a decisive 3-pointer from Lara Somfai that sealed the Ducks’ fate with just 21 seconds remaining.
Stanford’s defense was equally impressive, limiting Oregon to just 30.8% shooting in the fourth quarter, while forcing nine turnovers. Coach Paye highlighted her team’s ability to respond to challenges, saying, “I want to focus on this team’s resilience. Our team went on our own run and we answered back.”
The victory marks Oregon’s second loss of the season and showcases the competitive spirit of both teams. Oregon’s coach Kelly Graves acknowledged the challenges faced in the fourth quarter, noting, “It’s hard to keep them down for 40 minutes.”
Stanford’s triumph in the 2025 Invisalign Bay Area Women’s Classic not only enhances their season record but also solidifies their reputation as a formidable contender. Fans can expect more thrilling performances as the Cardinal continues their campaign.
Stay tuned for further updates as Stanford prepares for their next match, while Oregon will look to bounce back from this tough defeat. The excitement around women’s basketball is palpable, and this game will surely be a talking point in the days to come.
