SAN RAFAEL, Calif. - In the second and final night of the PacWest/CCAA Dominican Crossover, FPU women's basketball fell to Cal State Monterey Bay 63-54 Saturday.  The loss drops the 'Birds to 2-2 in the young season.

In the first quarter, the Otters established an early lead over the Sunbirds 18-10. Monterey Bay demonstrated a strong presence in the paint, scoring 12 points inside, and secured 12 total rebounds, including eight defensive rebounds. The Sunbirds struggled with shooting, making only 4 of 16 field goals, but managed to score 5 second-chance points, which included a three-pointer by Angela Whitfield.

The Sunbirds managed to narrowly outscore the Otters in the second quarter and draw the deficit closer.  FPU capitalized on scoring opportunities in the paint, with Lydia Manu contributing a crucial dunk.  Julie Ramirez hit a 3-pointer late in the quarter to close the halftime gap to six points, 28-22.  

The third quarter was fairly even and both teams committed seven personal fouls, impacting the flow of the game. The Otters began the quarter with a scoring streak, including a layup by Jayden McNeal, assisted by Sha'nece Garrett. The Sunbirds responded with free throws from Anisa Rillo and Manu, keeping the game competitive. The quarter featured several turnovers and steals from both teams, with notable defensive plays by MB's Jolie Johnson and FPU's Ramirez. As the quarter progressed, the Otters managed to maintain a slight edge, with Leah Sarabia and Briajanae Wade contributing key baskets to extend their lead.

The Otters were able to secure the win with a final push in the fourth quarter and pull away for good. Ella Doherty led the Otters with a strong performance in the fourth, adding eight points to maintain the scoring advantage. The Sunbirds' Olivia Garcia and Ramirez attempted to close the gap with timely 3-pointers and free throws, respectively, but were unable to overcome the deficit. Both teams faced challenges with turnovers, but the Otters' consistent scoring and the Sunbirds' missed opportunities played a critical role in the final outcome.  MB's Doherty would lead all scorers in the game with 20.

FPU managed only 17 field goals from 59 attempts, which is their lowest average yet this season.  On a night when the shots weren't falling for the Sunbirds, the Otters' superior 45.5% percentage was all they needed to pull off the 11-point victory.  Ramirez was the most productive Sunbird of the night, notching 12 points, 3 boards, and 3 steals.  Bre Hurt added 8 alongside Rillo's 7.  FPU managed 12 steals in the game, but MB still were able score more points on turnovers, contributing to FPU's cold night on the floor.

The 'Birds return home for a showdown with fellow valley stalwart Stanislaus State on Wednesday.  Tipoff is set for 5pm from Fresno's Special Events Center and will stream live on the PacWest Network.


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