The UBC Okanagan Heat was mere seconds away from remaining unbeaten in Canada West basketball in 2016.

In the end, the Thompson Rivers University Wolfpack slipped past the Heat 71-70 on Saturday night, ending Claire Meadows' team's conference winning streak  at five games.

Down by as many as 16 points, the Heat staged a furious rally to make the game close, taking a one point lead with just 4.9 seconds left in the final quarter.

But TRU guard Michelle Bos scored the decisive basket as time expired to give the 'Pack the victory.

"It was a fun game," said Heat head coach Clare Meadows. "Every game between now and the end of the season have a lot of meaning for both teams. I think each and every game will be a competitive battle. If they all end that way, they will be exciting."

The Heat was led by senior Emily Kanester who scored 16 points in limited minutes due to foul trouble.

Kayla McFadden had 14 points, as did Chloe Kennedy who was a key figure in the comeback with eight points in the third quarter.

The Heat, now 10-4, are in sole possession of third spot in the Explorer Division, while TRU (11-4) sits in second spot.

Both teams remain in good a position for the playoffs, with the top three in the division moving onto the post season.

UBCO is back home this weekend as the Heat hosts Fraser Valley on Friday and Saturday.

The Heat men (7-7) also return to action against the Cascades.