THOUSAND OAKS, CA -- Erin Joo playing outstanding basketball at both ends of the floor inspired the Slugs to a 77-59 victory over the Cal Lutheran Regals. Joo scored 12 ponts, snatched 8 rebouds, dish out 4 assisted and even blocked 2 shots. Joo was ably assisted by Leah Parrish and Sarah Mackey, who each added 22 points.

Behind a variety of shots by Joo, Mackey and Parrish, the Slugs raced of an early lead. When Geena Giovannetti made 2 free throws the Slugs led 16-3 lead.  Mackey and Parrish completed controlled the inside. Both scored at will. With 8 minutes to go in the first half, the Slugs held a healthy 28-14 advantage.

Just when the Slugs appeared be on their way to an easy win, the Regals responded. After a timeout, the Regals came out with 1-3-1 three quarter court trap that initially confused the Slugs.  The Regals converted the Slug turnovers into points and cut the lead to 28-21. Ryane Ortiz ended the run with a 3 pointer but the Regals kept coming.  The Regals reeled off three straight baskets and trailed only 31-27. Joo keyed a Slugs rally with a steal and an assist. Lashay Alexander put back a Slugs miss and Ortiz drained a three as the Slugs led 39-34 at the half.

For the first few minutes of the second half the teams traded baskets as the Slugs maintained a 48-42 lead. The Slugs seemed in control but suddenly the Regals came to life. The Regals drained a three pointer and two layups and with 11 minutes to go it was a two point game 49-47. The next few minutes would determine the game. Jasmon Dimson entered the game and hit a critical 3 pointer.  Giovannetti, who led the Slugs with 9 rebounds, stole the ball on the next two Regal possessions.  Joo converted both thefts into baskets.  Ortiz drained a three and Parrish hit a layup as the Slugs led 63-53. The Regals would never again get within 10. Seven straight points by Sarah Mackey sealed the victory. The win ended a 10 game Slug losing streak to the Regals.

The Slugs face the Worcester Polytechnic in round two of the Posada Royale Winter Tournament