Oregon forward Amina Muhammad and Grand Canyon guard Trinity San Antonio squared off as the University of Oregon Ducks dominated the Grand Canyon Antelopes with a 70-54 victory on Monday, November 18. With this win, the Ducks advanced to an impressive 5-0 record this season. Next, they’re set to face the Auburn Tigers on November 20.

In college basketball, playing with ease can be risky, but the Oregon women’s team made it look effortless in their 68-52 win over Wisconsin on Saturday. The Ducks turned every challenge into an opportunity, effortlessly maneuvering past the Badgers. After finishing last in the Pac-12 last season, Oregon is off to a promising start this year.

The Ducks (11-4, 2-2 Big Ten) showcased their depth by winning without their leading scorer, Peyton Scott, who was sidelined with a knee injury. Head coach Kelly Graves described her absence as “short term.” Scott, a senior transfer averaging 10.9 points per game, has been a crucial contributor this season. Stepping up in her place was guard Nani Falatea, who scored double digits in just her second start of the season.

Wisconsin (10-5, 1-3 Big Ten) appeared sluggish early in the game. Oregon’s defense forced multiple turnovers, holding Wisconsin scoreless for nearly five minutes before Halle Douglass sank a wide-open three-pointer. In total, Wisconsin committed 22 turnovers—eight more than Oregon.

Known for avoiding three-point shots, Wisconsin surprisingly attempted seven in the first quarter but only made two. Oregon’s defense capitalized on these misses while controlling the game.

After the game, Coach Graves praised his team’s defense, calling it one of the best he’d seen in his 11 years of coaching. On offense, the Ducks excelled in the paint, with Amina Muhammad delivering key plays and earning and-one opportunities early on. Graves highlighted Muhammad as a defensive standout and even a future WNBA first-round pick.

Despite missing Scott, Oregon’s roster depth shone brightly. Guards Deja Kelly, Nani Falatea, Katie Fiso, Sofia Bell, and Elisa Mevius each brought something unique to the court. Whether it was Kelly’s mid-range shots or Falatea’s three-point accuracy, everyone contributed to the win.

Graves emphasized the importance of team depth, saying, “It doesn’t matter if you’re starting or coming off the bench—every player matters.”

By halftime, Oregon was up by 14 points, and their rhythm only grew stronger. Four guards had at least five points each, while Muhammad added 10 points on efficient shooting. The Ducks also shut down Wisconsin’s star forward Serah Williams, holding her to just three points and zero offensive rebounds.

Oregon’s defensive identity stood out throughout the game. Coach Jerise Freeman has implemented aggressive and physical defensive strategies that are paying off for the team.

While Oregon had some minor defensive lapses—like leaving Wisconsin players open for threes—these issues are fixable. Overall, the Ducks played with confidence and cohesion in the second half, securing a comfortable victory.

One thing is clear: Oregon’s depth and versatility have transformed them into a formidable team this season. Unlike last year, when they relied heavily on a few players, this roster allows room for everyone to contribute without overwhelming pressure. Even without their top scorer, they proved they can compete and win decisively.

This is a team that looks ready to keep dancing through the season.