The Bearcats held off the Gorillas 66-62 in a game that saw 19 lead changes and eight ties.
Mallory McConkey led Northwest with 16 points.
The Northwest women's basketball team improve to 11-2 overall and 6-1 in MIAA play.
The Bearcats return to action Thursday, January 6th at Washburn. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. at Lee Arena.