UC Santa Cruz women's basketball almost finished a second half comeback, but lost 62-54 to Wisconsin-Platteville Wednesday afternoon at the West Field House.
The Banana Slugs fell to 5-7 on the season.

After the visiting Pioneers led by five at halftime, they opened the third quarter on a 17-5 run to lead 45-28 with 3:55 left. The Banana Slugs rallied, and Talysha Wilkerson's layup and a three-pointer from Amanda Inserra got them within nine at 47-38 at the end of the quarter. The Pioneers were still up by nine before consecutive layups by Ariel Anderson brought UC Santa Cruz back to within five at 55-50 with 1:16 remaining. The Pioneers however saw out the game to prevent the Banana Slug comeback.

Anderson led UC Santa Cruz with 15 points and nine rebounds, as well as a career-high seven steals. Inserra finished with 12 points off four second half three-pointers and two steals. Wilkerson added 10 points plus a team-high five assists. The Banana Slugs finished with a 45-41 rebound advantage and five blocks. The Pioneers (6-3), who entered the game sixth nationally in field goal percentage, were held to a season-low 35.8% (24-67) from the field.

UC Santa Cruz regroups to face No. 1 ranked NYU on Friday afternoon.