SANTA BARBARA, CA - Three Lions finished in double digits in the 64-57 win over the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos Sunday afternoon.
 
Sydney Gandy led the charge with 16 points, making 5-15 from the field, 4-9 from beyond the arc, and contributing two assists. 
 
Da'Ja Hamilton had a solid performance with 12 points, three assists, two steals, and a block, while Alexis Mark showcased her skills with 11 points, seven rebounds, four assists, a block, and a steal.
 
LMU took an early lead, starting with a three-pointer from Gandy and displaying strong defense that kept the Gauchos scoreless until 6:56 in the first quarter. The Lions maintained a 15-9 lead going into the second quarter.
 
In the second quarter, a three-pointer by Mark extended LMU's lead to 25-13, but UCSB responded with a 7-0 run, narrowing the gap to seven points. Gandy's drive to the basket with :06 seconds left ensured the Lions held a 32-24 lead at halftime.
 
The Gauchos staged a comeback in the third quarter, going on an 8-0 run to tie the score at 32-32. Gandy played a crucial role in this quarter, sinking three consecutive threes to put the Lions ahead. Noelle Yancy's pull-up jumper with :52 seconds left allowed LMU to finish the quarter with a 49-43 lead.
 
In the fourth quarter, the Gauchos were able to get the score within one twice, but the Lions sealed the win with a final 6-0 run, including a pivotal three-point shot from Hamilton. The Lions claimed victory with a final score of 64-57.
 
The Lions next game is Thursday, Dec. 21, against the CSUN Matadors at 1 PM in Northridge, CA.