IRVINE, Calif. – Azusa Pacific claimed a 75–59 victory over Seattle Pacific on Friday on Day 1 of the GNAC/PacWest Challenge at CU Arena. Rachel Roderick led the Cougars with 16 points and 7 rebounds.

The Cougars full-court pressure immediately disrupted SPU's rhythm, leading to a flurry of early baskets. Rachel Roderick set the tone with easy finishes and establishing deep post position, while Calista Arzaga and Lauren Jones capitalized on turnovers to stretch the margin. Before the Falcons could settle in, APU established a 15–2 run and built a comfortable cushion.

From there, the Cougars simply kept the momentum on their side. Audrey Sayoc gave APU another spark with a three from up top, then hit a pair of free throws a few possessions later. Roderick continued to collect key rebounds, and the Cougar bench added a burst of energy that helped stretch the margin even further. By the time the teams headed to the locker room, Azusa Pacific had built a comfortable 21 point lead.

Seattle Pacific started to settle in a little bit in the second half, but every time the Falcons made a push, Azusa Pacific had an answer. Elyse Mitchell knocked down a jumper to steady things, while Keisharna Lucas came up with a couple of tough plays around the basket. When SPU finally put together back-to-back points early in the 4th, Sadie Pierce buried a three to quiet it immediately.

Inside the Box Score:

• Roderick led the Cougars with 16 points and 7 rebounds in 18 minutes
• Sayoc delivered 11 points, 6 assists, and 4 steals 
• Pierce added 10 points off the bench
• The Cougars scored 30 points in the paint, tallied 27 points off turnovers, and produced 19 fast-break points.
• APU shot 26-for-59 from the field and held SPU to only 17 first-half points.