Kaylee Murphy led four Banana Slugs in double-figures as UC Santa Cruz never trailed in an 84-47 win over Pacific Union Wednesday night at Kaiser Permanente Arena.
The Banana Slugs improved to 3-1 while shooting 41.3% from the field (33-80).
The Banana Slugs took control early, closing the first quarter up 21-6 on Murphy's put-back layup with a second left. After the Pioneers got within 10 (28-18) with 5:28 until halftime, UC Santa Cruz closed the quarter on a 13-6 run for a 41-24 lead, highlighted by Amanda Inserra's three at the buzzer. The Banana Slugs used their bench well and the lead was as much as 39 in the final quarter.
Murphy had team-highs of 12 rebounds and 5 assists. It was the junior's third-straight double-double this season. Ashley Kowack added 14 points and Inserra scored 12. Sophomore Surina Beal had 12 points in 12 minutes off the bench.
Olivia Crigler had 14 points to lead the Pioneers (0-3). UC Santa Cruz continues the homestand when they play Cal Maritime Friday night at the West Field House.