Stockton, Calif. — In a thrilling showdown at Chris Kjeldsen Pool, the Azusa Pacific Cougars put up a fierce fight but came up just short in a 13–12 loss to the University of the Pacific. The tightly contested water polo match kept the 207 fans in attendance on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

Azusa Pacific (14–13, 2–4) trailed early after Pacific (12–8, 5–1) opened the first period strong, but the Cougars clawed their way back and stayed in the game throughout. The Tigers edged out the first quarter 5–3, but Azusa Pacific found momentum in the second and third quarters behind goals from Laia Marsinach Ortega, Audrey Dexter, and Alexandra Akritidou.

Dexter led the Cougars offensively with a hat trick, including a key goal in the fourth quarter that brought APU within one. Jaeden Johnson added two goals, and Ortega also netted two, keeping the scoreboard ticking in APU's favor.

Despite Azusa Pacific's offensive surge in the third quarter, where they outscored Pacific 4–5, the Tigers held their ground with standout performances from Dora Alaksza, who scored five goals, and Hila Futorian, who added three goals and five assists. Pacific's ability to capitalize on power plays and their 7 steals gave them the extra edge in a game where both teams exchanged momentum multiple times.

Goalkeeper Daniela Herrero Miralles had a strong showing in the cage for APU, recording 10 saves against 37 shots. But the Cougars couldn't quite overcome a late goal from Pacific's Addison McGowan, who sealed the Tigers' narrow victory with under five minutes remaining.

Despite the loss, Azusa Pacific displayed resilience and balance, with nine assists on 12 goals and contributions from across the roster. With only a few games left in the regular season, the Cougars will look to build on this performance as they aim for a strong finish in conference play.

Up next, APU looks to rebound as they prepare for another critical matchup in the Golden Coast Conference with a Friday night showdown at Fresno Pacific.