Box Score Azusa, Calif.-- History was made as #4 Azusa Pacific defeated Cal Poly Pomona by a final of 63-45 on Saturday evening. Junior
Laura Pranger broke her previous school record for most blocked shots in a single game, as she finished the game with 11 blocks. Pranger broke the previous school record last season against Chaminade on February 19th , where she tallied in 10 blocks. Not only did Pranger break her previous record in blocked shots, but she collected a triple double on the night with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 blocks. "Laura has such an impact on the game in so many ways," said head coach
T.J. Hardeman, "she has length, skills, and knowledge that allows her to be dominant on both ends of the floor."
Azusa Pacific Standouts:
In addition to Pranger, multiple Cougars had impressive performances. Senior
Rachel Bozlee and freshman
Molly Whitmore finished in double figures with 10 points each. Senior
Zoe March finished with seven points while sophomore
Lydia Nieto, senior
Cierra Roufosse, and senior
Daylee Hanson collected six points apiece. "This opening weekend has been a good opportunity for us to get back in the rhythm as a team," said Coach Hardeman, "returning so many of our key players has allowed for us to be familiar with one another, but what has been more encouraging is seeing how Paige and Molly (both freshmen) have fit into rotation and gelled with this core."
How It Happened:
The Cougars jumped out to an early 9-point lead after the first quarter, 13-4, and its well-rounded offensive balance helped maintain the lead throughout the opening half for a 35-15 halftime lead.
The Cougars extended its lead to a 24-point margin after opening the third quarter with a rebound put-back from Bozlee. The Broncos were never able to cut the lead by more than eighteen points throughout the remainder of the game as the Cougars cruised their way to a 63-45 victory.
What's Next:
Azusa Pacific will look to continue their home portion of their schedule as they take on Seattle Pacific on Friday, November 15th at 5:00 p.m. The game is apart of the two-day, four-team West Region Crossover Classic. UC San Diego and Western Washington will also take part.