RIVERSIDE, Calif. – The FPU women's basketball team was tripped up on Thursday evening, falling 74-51 to UC Riverside. Senior guard
Jessica Malazarte led the Blue and Orange offensively with 16 points, while freshman
Bre Hurt finished a rebound shy of a double-double.
INSIDE THE MATCHUP:
- Final: UCR 74, FPU 51
- Location: SRC Arena | Riverside, Calif.
QUOTABLE:
- "It was a blessing to be on the court tonight. We played much better stretches of basketball tonight. It was a solid first quarter and then a solid second half when we had some really good stretches. Our freshmen showed great improvement and continue to impress us with their ability to grow quickly. I thought Rachel looked better than ever. She is an absolute difference maker for us and it was great watching her battle through so much adversity and get back on the court.." – fifth-year head Coach Tim Beauregard
HOW IT HAPPENED:
- In the first 1:32 of the game, the Sunbirds jumped out to a 7-1 lead, capped by a three-pointer from Hurt.
- Behind four first quarter points from Rachel Berry, the Blue and Orange played UCR even over the first chapter.
- The Highlanders found the rhythm in the second quarter, riding a 16-6 run over the first six minutes to grab the momentum.
- The home team carried a 39-23 lead into the locker room at the intermission, with Malazarte's eight points leading the way for FPU.
- Fresno Pacific's best offensive stretch came in the third quarter, when the team knocked down north of 54% of their looks from inside the arc.
- The 'Birds played their hosts within two points in the final stanza, but the Highlanders never led FPU get back within striking distance.
STATS FROM THE GAME:
- Behind Hurt's nine boards, the Sunbirds finished with a total of 38 for the night.
- Freshman Anisa Rillo turned in a strong defensive effort, collecting five defensive rebounds and pair of steals.
- The Highlanders narrowly won the turnover battle by a margin of 22-18.
SOCIAL:
UP NEXT:
- The Sunbirds are set to return to action on Dec. 18 for an exhibition against Nevada. Tipoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.
#TeamFPU
