The UCSD women’s basketball team finished the season’s first series of road games with a tough, last-minute loss to Grand Canyon on Nov. 29 by a score of 76-68. The loss dropped the team’s record to 1-2 for season play (0-1 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association) and 1-3 overall. Grand Canyon improved to 2-1 overall and 1-0 in the conference.
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Despite the final score’s eight-point difference, the game was close the entire time. The Tritons trailed only by one point at halftime, and led, 68-67, as late as 2:15 left in the game. However, UCSD was unable to hang on to its lead, as Grand Canyon went on to score the game’s final nine points. The Antelopes took the lead back at 1:37 left on the clock on two free throws after a foul by Triton freshman forward Hillary Hansen. UCSD could not recuperate and regain the lead to win the game.
Fouls hindered the Tritons throughout the ball game. Senior guard Ali Ginn fouled out with only two points and junior forward Katie McGann fouled out with eight points. UCSD committed 26 fouls while Grand Canyon committed only 17 fouls. This overwhelming disparity gave Grand Canyon a huge advantage in free throws. The Antelopes made 25 of the 37 free throws they attempted, and while the Tritons shot well from the free-throw line (14 of 18 attempts), it was not enough.
Both junior center Margaret Johnson, who had 13 points and 10 rebounds, and freshman guard Leora Juster, who scored 12 points and grabbed six rebounds, delivered strong performances for the Tritons. Sophomore guard Andrea Herold led the team with five assists.
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Meanwhile, Hansen continued to play well as a forward substitute. UCSD women’s basketball head coach Judy Malone has been impressed with the freshman’s contributions thus far in the season. Off the bench, Hansen contributed 10 points on 4-7 shooting.
No coaches or players were available for comment after the game.
After a tough start to the season on the road, the team will head home to RIMAC Arena to play in the Alumni game on Dec. 6.
During winter break, the Tritons will get a chance to redeem themselves against Grand Canyon at home on Dec. 13. UCSD will be looking for its first win of the season, while the Atntelopes will attempt to sweep the season series. Tip-off for the Dec. 13 game will be at 2 p.m.
