Box Score SAN DIEGO – The Loyola Marymount Women's Basketball team fell to WCC opponent University of San Diego Toreros, 79-51.
The Lions did not shoot well to start the match with the Toreros, finishing the first quarter under 35% from the field. The Toreros scored four points off the Lions six turnovers, giving them the early lead.
Ariel Johnson and
Alexis Mark were able to keep the Lions in the game scoring six points each, as the first quarter ended with the Lions trailing, 12-18. Mark came into the game hot, shooting 75% while collecting five rebounds alone in the first quarter.
Despite falling behind, the Lions were able to keep their confidence pushing the ball up court to execute their offense.
Johnson and Mark continued their performance for the Lions in other ways, as Johnson collected 2 assists along with her 11 points, while Mark finished the half with eight points and seven rebounds.
With the score, 26-39, headed in to the second half, the Lions were determined to get their offense going and limit mistakes, as they produced 17 turnovers in the first half.
Aspyn Adams hit her second three-point dagger early in the third, as she tried to rally the Lions back. Meanwhile,
Cassandra Gordon also hit a shot from the perimeter, cutting the lead to just 9 at one point.
The Toreros continued to capitalize off the Lions mistakes, scoring 20 points off 21 turnovers in the contest. However, Mark would not give up attacking the basket, compiling steals, and staying consistent on the boards.
Cassandra Gordon hit two clutch mid-range shots, as the Lions trailed early in the fourth quarter, 45-66. This gave the Lions confidence as they began their fight to come back.
The Lions kept fighting hard on defense, forcing 5 turnovers in the fourth quarter. However, the lead was strong wide for the Lions to come back, as mistakes outlasts the team's overall effort.
Johnson finished the game with 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, while
Alexis Mark almost earned a double-double with 11 points and 9 rebounds.
Cassandra Gordon finished 75% from the field with 10 points.
The Lions are now 3-9 in the conference, and 8-14 overall.
The Lions will play return home to host Santa Clara on Saturday, Feb 12. The conference game can be seen on the WCC Network, with tip-off from Gersten Pavilion set for 2 pm.
