EDMONTON - The Alberta Pandas got back in the win column with a dominant 88-49 win over the Manitoba Bisons Friday evening at the Saville Centre.

It was an impressive depth showing from the U SPORTS #2-ranked Pandas, who boasted four scorers in double-digit territory. Fifth-year Jayden Tanner led the squad with 20 points, while Kiah Easton-Ihediohanma filled the statsheet with a 10-point, three-rebound, five-assist, three-steal contest. The win moves Alberta into a tie for third place in the Prairie Division, a reflection of the strength of teams in the conference.

The Bisons saw a phenomenal effort from Anna Miko, who scored a game-high 22 points, but were largely unable to get anything going outside of the third-year as they shot 31.4% from the field as a team, and an anemic 25% from beyond the line. Manitoba slides to 3-10 in the Prairie, but are just one win back of the seventh and final divisional playoff spot.

The opening frame was a seesaw, with the lead changing hands a remarkable 11 times as the pace was incredible. Alberta's ferocious defence came alive near the end of the quarter, as they forced a couple of the Bisons nine turnovers in the frame and took full advantage, taking a five point lead into the second.

The Pandas would ride the late momentum in what was a high-flying second quarter. Jayden Tanner took the game over with a frame-high seven points, while the Alberta transition offence kept finding holes in a Manitoba defence that ranks near the bottom in defensive efficiency. However, the Bisons would hang around thanks to the phenomenal play of Anna Miko who finished with 18 points at the break, leading all scorers. The hosts would hold a 46-33 lead heading into the second half.

The second half saw some inspired efforts from the visitors side, but Tanner and crew were able to outscore them 42-16 over the last two quarters as they led from the first quarter on in a 88-49 win.