Box Score THOUSAND OAKS, CA – The UC Santa Cruz women's basketball team fought hard but came up just short in a 60-56 loss to Cal Lutheran University on the road.
How It Happened
The game was close from the start, with both teams tied 14-14 at the end of the first quarter. Cal Lutheran edged ahead by two points going into halftime. UCSC responded with a strong third quarter, outscoring Cal Lutheran 20-12 to take the lead heading into the final period. Despite their efforts, the Banana Slugs couldn't hold off a late surge by the Regals, who secured the win in the closing moments.
Alexa Litchev led UCSC in scoring 16 points, while
Jenna Gorton and
Ariel Anderson recorded double-doubles. Gorton tallied 12 points and 12 rebounds, and Anderson added 11 and 11 rebounds.
Claire Galbo made her presence felt on the boards with nine rebounds, and
Emilie Ngo facilitated the offense with six assists.
As a team, UCSC dominated the glass, out-rebounding Cal Lutheran 45-35. The Banana Slugs also dished out ten assists, but Cal Lutheran edged them slightly in that category with 11. UCSC's strong defense and board effort kept the game close until the final buzzer.
The Banana Slugs will look to bounce back in their next game against Occidental College in Los Angeles on Sunday, November 24th.
