LAS VEGAS – Air Force used a strong defensive effort and steady play throughout to defeat Wyoming, 60–53, in the opening round of the 2026 Credit Union 1 Mountain West Women’s Basketball Championship on Saturday at the Thomas & Mack Center.
The Falcons set the tone early, taking a 16–11 lead after the first quarter and carried a 29–23 advantage into halftime. Air Force extended the margin in the third quarter, outscoring the Cowgirls 18–13 to build a 47–36 lead entering the final period. Overall, the Falcons led for the final 32:14 of the contest.
Wyoming fought back in the fourth quarter, cutting the lead to just three, behind a strong offensive performance from Malene Pedersen, but Air Force maintained control down the stretch to secure the victory.
Milahnie Perry led Air Force with 18 points while adding six rebounds and five assists. Elyse Adams finished with 14 points and nine rebounds, and Brooke Clay added 10 points for the Falcons.
Pedersen paced Wyoming with 29 points to lead all scorers.
Air Force forced 19 Wyoming turnovers while committing just six of its own, helping the Falcons maintain the edge throughout the afternoon.
With the win, Air Force advances to the quarterfinal round of the Credit Union 1 MW Women’s Basketball Championship where it will take on top-seeded San Diego State.
