SANTA CLARITA, CALIF. -- Azusa Pacific passed with flying colors perhaps its most significant test to date, beating The Master's College, 69-54, Friday night in the Mustangs' Bross Gym.

The victory erases the memory of a ghastly 11-point loss suffered last year to the Mustangs, who went on to qualify for their first-ever NAIA Championship Tournament. It also signals that Azusa Pacific is matching preseason expectations of being one west coast's top NAIA teams this season.

As has been the case throughout the Cougars' previous 6 wins, defense and freshman Allison Box paved the way. Azusa Pacific held The Master's to a season-low 54 points and handed the Mustangs their first loss in 5 home games this campaign. The Cougars limited the Mustangs to just 35% (17-for-49) shooting from the floor and induced 30 turnovers.

Meanwhile, for the seventh time this season Box led the Cougars with a team-high 18 points and collected a team-best 7 rebounds as well. Junior center Jennifer Barbone tallied 18 points as well on 6-foor-12 shooting. Senior All-GSAC guard Amy Lemm enjoyed another fine all-around game with 9 points and 7 rebounds to go along with team-highs of 5 assists and 4 steals.

The Cougars, who have now won 4 straight, led 32-18 at the half. They improve to 7-2 on the season. Meanwhile, The Master's falls to 8-5.