January 2, 2010

Box Score

SEASIDE, Calif. – The Cal State Monterey Bay women's basketball team comeback in the second half fell short, as the Otters dropped a 65-57 decision to the Lumberjacks of Humboldt State on Saturday night at the Otter Sports Center.

CSUMB dropped to 6-2 overall and 2-2 in California Collegiate Athletic Association play as the Jacks improved to 7-2, 5-0 in conference action.

Senior #Veronica Williams# led the Otters with 16 points and classmate #Helen Suarez# added 12 points.  Senior #Jazz Herrera# pulled down a season-high 13 rebounds.


“Our shots just didn't fall tonight and even with a fantastic defensive effort, it just wasn't enough,” said head coach #Renee Jimenez#. “If we knocked down a three, hit a couple of free throws and make our layups, it is a different ball game.”

After accumulating a 35-17 deficit at halftime, the Otters rallied 13-2 run that began on a layup by junior #LaShawn Johnson# three minutes into the second half.

CSUMB cut HSU's lead to 59-52 with 3:53 remaining on two free throws by Suarez, but the Jacks would not back down.

The Lumberjacks were led by Paige Peterson with 16 points and seven rebounds.  Kayla Williams added 10 points and four steals before fouling out.

The Otters shot 40.6 from the field in the second half after a season-low 19.4 in the previous half. CSUMB out-rebounded HSU 38-32 and forced 15 turnovers.

"We had a great effort in the second half but we just have to learn how to put two halves together if we want to compete for a championship in the conference," Jimenez said. "I think tonight's second half performance proved we can play with anyone in the CCAA."

CSUMB wraps-up its homestand on Sunday, Jan. 3, hosting Sonoma State to the Kelp Bed.