Phoenix, January 31, 2026
The Grand Canyon University (GCU) Lopes women’s basketball team is hosting the Wyoming Cowgirls in a crucial Mountain West Conference matchup. After an impressive victory over Utah State, the Lopes aim to build on their momentum against a strong Wyoming team currently riding a four-game winning streak. The game, scheduled at the Global Credit Union Arena, is essential for GCU’s playoff positioning as they strive for a top seed in the conference tournament.
Lopes Host Wyoming, Seek Continued Momentum in Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ — The Grand Canyon University (GCU) Lopes women’s basketball team is set to host the Wyoming Cowgirls this Saturday afternoon, January 31, at 1 p.m. MST at the Global Credit Union Arena. The highly anticipated matchup arrives as the Lopes aim to build on recent success and enhance their standing in a competitive Mountain West Conference, showcasing the vibrant spirit of college basketball in Phoenix.
This contest is crucial for GCU as they look to maintain their momentum following an impressive 86-66 victory over Utah State earlier this week. The game against Wyoming, a team currently on a four-game winning streak, underscores the importance of competitive athletics in fostering community pride and showcasing the talent cultivated within local university programs. As the season progresses, every game carries significant weight for the Lopes in their pursuit of a top seed in the conference tournament.
Building on Recent Triumphs
GCU’s Resurgence on the Court
The Lopes enter this weekend’s pivotal home game fresh off a decisive 86-66 victory against Utah State on January 28, 2026. This win was a testament to the team’s resilience and strategic execution, providing a significant boost as they face another strong conference opponent. Casey Valenti-Paea was a key contributor in the Utah State game, scoring 16 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and adding two steals. Anisa Jeffries Elicerio also had a strong performance with 14 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. Such individual performances, combined with team cohesion, highlight the dedication nurtured within the Grand Canyon University athletics program.
The Mountain West Challenge
Navigating Conference Play
GCU’s move to the Mountain West Conference for the 2025-26 academic year has intensified the competition, presenting new challenges and opportunities for the Lopes. The team currently holds sixth place in the Mountain West standings, positioned just one game behind New Mexico and 1.5 games shy of Boise State for a coveted top-four seed. The January 24 loss to Boise State (75-65) demonstrated the tight margins within the conference. Each game, particularly against in-conference rivals like Wyoming, is vital for improving their tournament seeding prospects and showcasing their competitive spirit.
Wyoming’s Winning Streak Threatens
A Formidable Opponent
The visiting Wyoming Cowgirls arrive in Phoenix riding a four-game winning streak, adding another layer of challenge to today’s contest. Wyoming recently secured a 47-42 victory over Fresno State, demonstrating their ability to close out tight games. The Cowgirls boast a season record of 8-12, indicating a team that, despite its record, has found its stride and is playing with confidence. This matchup pits GCU’s home-court advantage and recent offensive surge against Wyoming’s defensive tenacity and winning momentum.
Phoenix Athletics: A Hub of Competition
Community and Economic Impact
The enthusiasm surrounding GCU athletics, particularly for high-stakes games like this one, underscores Phoenix’s growing prominence as a hub for college basketball and broader sports. The investment in university programs and state-of-the-art facilities like the Global Credit Union Arena not only supports student-athletes but also contributes significantly to the local economy and community engagement. Events like today’s game draw fans, boost local businesses, and foster a collective sense of pride, illustrating the positive ripple effects of responsible growth and private initiative in supporting robust athletic programs across the state.
Looking Ahead: A Push for Postseason
As the Grand Canyon University women’s basketball team navigates the demanding Mountain West schedule, their performance in games like today’s against Wyoming will be critical. The Lopes’ ability to execute on both ends of the court, maintain their recent offensive rhythm, and leverage their home crowd advantage will be key factors in securing a favorable position for the upcoming conference tournament. Phoenix residents and sports enthusiasts are encouraged to continue supporting GCU’s student-athletes, recognizing their hard work and dedication as they strive for excellence on the court and represent the strong values of our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What time and where is the GCU vs. Wyoming women’s basketball game?
- The GCU vs. Wyoming women’s basketball game is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 1 p.m. MST at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix, Arizona.
- What was GCU’s last game result?
- Grand Canyon University secured an 86-66 victory against Utah State on January 28, 2026.
- What is GCU’s current conference affiliation?
- Grand Canyon University joined the Mountain West Conference for the 2025-26 academic year.
- Where does GCU stand in the Mountain West Conference?
- GCU is currently in sixth place in the Mountain West, one game behind New Mexico and 1.5 games behind Boise State for a top-four seed.
- What is Wyoming’s recent performance?
- Wyoming enters the game on a four-game winning streak, having defeated Fresno State 47-42 in their last outing.
Key Game Statistics & Season Highlights (as of January 31, 2026)
| Category | Grand Canyon (GCU) | Wyoming |
|---|---|---|
| Current Record (Overall) | 7-14 | 8-12 |
| Conference Record (Mountain West) | 6-5 | N/A (Visiting MW team with 4-game win streak, last vs. Fresno State) |
| Current Conference Standing | 6th in Mountain West | N/A (Visiting MW team) |
| Previous Game Result | W, 86-66 vs. Utah State (Jan 28, 2026) | W, 47-42 vs. Fresno State (last outing) |
| Key GCU Player (vs. Utah State) | Casey Valenti-Paea (16 Pts, 7 Reb, 2 Stl) | N/A |
| Key GCU Player (vs. Utah State) | Anisa Jeffries Elicerio (14 Pts, 8 Reb, 4 Ast) | N/A |
| Wyoming Streak | N/A | Won 4 straight games |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
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