Boise, Idaho, January 2, 2026
The Grand Canyon University women’s basketball team is set to begin the new year with an away game against Boise State. This crucial matchup in the Mountain West Conference comes after the Lopes’ earlier loss to Colorado State, highlighting the competitive nature of their new conference. As the Lopes seek to achieve a .500 record, key players like Chloe Mann and Julianna LaMendola are poised to lead the team. This game represents not only a chance for victory but also a notable step in GCU’s athletic journey.
Phoenix, AZ — The Grand Canyon University (GCU) women’s basketball team is set to open its 2026 calendar year on the road against Boise State this Saturday, January 3. The contest marks a significant event as the Lopes continue their journey in the highly competitive Mountain West Conference, a league they officially joined earlier than planned, in July 2025.
Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m. MST at Boise, Idaho, and will be broadcast on the Mountain West Network. This matchup is critical for both teams as they aim for a .500 record in Mountain West play. The Lopes recently fell to Colorado State 61-47 in their last outing, while Boise State secured a 74-62 victory against Nevada.
Lopes Showcase Emerging Talent on the Court
The GCU women’s basketball squad brings a mix of experienced leadership and promising new talent to the court. Sophomore Chloe Mann leads the team in scoring, averaging 14.5 points per game, and has consistently reached double digits in 10 of 13 contests. Mann’s proficiency from the free-throw line is particularly noteworthy, with an 89% shooting accuracy, placing her 21st nationally and leading all Mountain West players in this category.
Junior guard Julianna LaMendola anchors the team’s rebounding efforts, averaging 6.3 boards per game. Her performance in Mountain West competition has been even stronger, pulling down 9.0 rebounds per game, including two consecutive 10-rebound showings against UNLV and San Jose State. Freshman Ines Zounia has also made an immediate impact, averaging 9.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.0 blocks per game in three Mountain West outings, earning her the Mountain West Freshman of the Week title on December 22.
GCU’s Ascent and the Mountain West Challenge
Grand Canyon University’s athletic programs, including women’s basketball, have seen a remarkable transformation. The university’s official entry into the Mountain West Conference, initially slated for no later than July 1, 2026, was expedited to July 2025. This accelerated move was driven by a need for conference affiliation for the 2025-26 academic year, as GCU transitioned from the Western Athletic Conference.
The Mountain West Conference, known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in basketball, presents a significant challenge and opportunity for GCU. This move expands the Mountain West’s footprint into Arizona, integrating Phoenix, the fifth-largest city in the U.S., into the conference’s competitive landscape. GCU will compete in 17 conference-sponsored sports within the Mountain West, enhancing the overall competitive level of the league.
Broader Implications for Phoenix and Arizona Sports
The growing prominence of Grand Canyon University athletics, especially with its recent move to the Mountain West Conference, has substantial implications for the Phoenix metropolitan area and the broader Arizona sports scene. As an anchor institution in west Phoenix, GCU’s expansion and success contribute significantly to the local economy. An economic impact study in 2015 revealed that the university was adding approximately $1 billion to the state’s economy annually during its expansion. More recent data from 2020 indicates an annual economic impact of $2.1 billion, supporting 17,690 jobs.
GCU’s commitment to community development extends beyond the athletic fields. The university has invested nearly $2 billion into academic infrastructure without increasing tuition on its Phoenix campus for 17 consecutive years. These investments include new residence halls, classrooms, and laboratories, fostering a vibrant campus environment. The university’s initiatives have also contributed to the revitalization of surrounding neighborhoods, with reports of increased housing values and decreased crime rates. This model demonstrates how private institutions, through responsible growth and strategic investment, can drive both athletic excellence and community prosperity, benefiting local residents and creating a stronger Phoenix AZ sports identity. The growth of Grand Canyon University athletics serves as a testament to the power of initiative and self-reliance in building successful programs and contributing to regional economic vitality.
Academic Excellence and Student-Athlete Development
Beyond athletic achievements, Grand Canyon University emphasizes academic success and the holistic development of its student-athletes. The university’s latest Graduation Success Rate report showed an uptick to 94%. Programs such as the Office of Student-Athlete Development are dedicated to providing services, programming, and guidance focused on academic excellence, career readiness, personal development, and community engagement. This commitment helps student-athletes become self-reliant, develop character and leadership skills, and prepare for life after sports.
GCU’s strong academic progress rate, with 11 of its 19 athletic programs posting a perfect 2018-19 score in the NCAA’s Academic Progress Rate, underscores the institution’s dual commitment to athletic and academic achievement. This focus on responsible growth and the development of well-rounded individuals is a cornerstone of the university’s mission, ensuring that students, whether on the court or in the classroom, are equipped for future success.
Looking Ahead: Embracing Competition and Growth
As the Grand Canyon University women’s basketball team embarks on its first game of the new calendar year against Boise State, the event symbolizes the Lopes’ continued upward trajectory in college basketball in Phoenix. The move to the Mountain West Conference represents a new chapter, offering heightened competition and increased visibility for Grand Canyon University athletics. This commitment to competitive excellence, coupled with strategic investments in both its campus and the surrounding community, positions GCU as a vital contributor to the regional sports landscape and economic development. The emphasis on fostering both athletic prowess and academic achievement reflects a balanced approach, promoting the values of hard work, perseverance, and community self-reliance.
We encourage fans and community members to continue supporting the Grand Canyon University Lopes as they navigate the exciting challenges of the Mountain West Conference. Stay engaged with Phoenix AZ sports and celebrate the ongoing success of student-athletes who embody determination and initiative. For more information on upcoming games and events, visit the official Grand Canyon University Athletics website.
FAQ Section
When is the Grand Canyon University women’s basketball game against Boise State?
The Grand Canyon University women’s basketball game against Boise State is scheduled for Saturday, January 3, 2026.
What time is the GCU vs. Boise State women’s basketball game?
The tip-off for the GCU vs. Boise State women’s basketball game is set for 2 p.m. MST.
Where will the GCU women’s basketball game against Boise State take place?
The game will take place in Boise, Idaho, at the ExtraMile Arena.
In which conference does Grand Canyon University primarily compete?
Grand Canyon University primarily competes in the Mountain West Conference, having joined for the 2025-26 academic year.
What is Chloe Mann’s scoring average for the GCU women’s basketball team?
Chloe Mann leads the team with an average of 14.5 points per game.
What is Grand Canyon University’s Graduation Success Rate?
Grand Canyon University’s latest Graduation Success Rate report showed an uptick to 94%.
Feature Table: Grand Canyon University Women’s Basketball vs. Boise State (January 3, 2026)
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Matchup | Grand Canyon University vs. Boise State |
| Date | Saturday, January 3, 2026 |
| Time | 2 p.m. MST |
| Location | Boise, Idaho (ExtraMile Arena) |
| Conference Affiliation (GCU) | Mountain West Conference (joined July 2025) |
| GCU Team Leader (Points) | Chloe Mann (14.5 PPG) |
| GCU Team Leader (Rebounds) | Julianna LaMendola (6.3 RPG; 9.0 RPG in MW play) |
| GCU Freshman of the Week | Ines Zounia (December 22) |
| GCU Graduation Success Rate | 94% |
| GCU Economic Impact (2020) | $2.1 billion annually in Arizona |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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University of Arizona Athletics Celebrates Remarkable Year
Freshman Ines Zounia Shines as Mountain West Freshman of the Week
Grand Canyon University’s Jaden Henley Acclaims First MW Honor
Grand Canyon University Men’s Basketball Team Secures Third Consecutive Victory
Arizona’s Higher Education Milestones and Achievements
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
