HONOLULU, Hawaii - Continuing their trip to the big island, Fresno Pacific women's basketball fell to Hawaii Pacific 77-69 in a closely contested matchup despite a 52-41 rebounding advantage. Fresno Pacific's bench contributed significantly with 38 points, but it was not enough to overcome Hawaii Pacific's second half surge.
The Sunbirds opened the game with a strong defensive effort, forcing seven turnovers in the first quarter. Despite shooting 20 percent from the field, Fresno Pacific capitalized on opportunities at the free-throw line, making eight of 11 attempts. Freshman
Sienna Evans contributed with a layup and two free throws, helping the team build an early 10-point lead at 6:05. Hawaii Pacific managed to cut the deficit to one, but
Grace Brown's layup and subsequent free throw at the 35-second mark secured a 17–11 lead for the Sunbirds at the end of the quarter.
The 'Birds gained momentum early in the second quarter with
Nina Wisniewski's consecutive free throws at 9:41. Wisniewski further impacted the game by hitting a three-pointer at 7:55, assisted by Evans, to maintain a comfortable margin. Despite Hawaii Pacific's attempts to close the gap, Fresno Pacific sustained their advantage through effective free-throw shooting. The quarter concluded with the Sunbirds holding a narrow lead of 37–32.
In the third quarter, FPU gained momentum early in the third quarter with a 3-pointer from
Trinity Tolbert at 8:37, extending their lead to 42–34. Evans also contributed significantly by securing defensive rebounds and converting them into points. However, Hawaii Pacific closed the gap, tying the score at 47 with 4:31 remaining. The Sharks got their first lead of the night after sinking two free throws.
Mason Long responded with a crucial 3-pointer at 3:31, briefly reclaiming the lead for the Sunbirds at 50–49. Despite a back-and-forth battle, the quarter concluded with the teams tied at 52.
The Sunbirds made a late push in the fourth quarter, narrowing the gap with a layup from Wisniewski at 2:05 that brought the score to 64-63. Despite a flurry of activity and scoring attempts, including a driving layup by Wilmurt, the Sunbirds struggled with turnovers and fouls that hampered their momentum. Hawaii Pacific capitalized on these opportunities, extending their lead through successful free throws and layups. The game concluded with Hawaii Pacific securing a 77-69 victory over the Sunbirds.
Wisniewski led the scoring for the Sunbirds, tallying 22 points and converting 8 of 9 free throws. Evans posted her first career double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds.
Angela Whitfield continued her defensive prowess this season by collecting 14 rebounds and adding two steals. Long contributed 11 points, including three 3-pointers.
The Sunbirds have a record of 8-15 overall and 5-13 in PacWest play.
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