HONOLULU, Hawai'i - In a clash at the Shark Tank, the Hawai'i Pacific University (HPU) women's basketball team fought valiantly but succumbed to a 64-51 loss against Dominican University. Fresh off
Allison Ross' explosive 27-point season debut, the Sharks were determined to avenge their recent road loss to the Penguins.
Kamehameha-Kapālama's Haley Masaki and Kalina Obrey would get the start joining Erika Glenn, Kaylee Berry, and Megan Jones. The first half saw a closely contested battle, with Masaki's 7 points crucial in keeping HPU within reach as they trailed the Penguins by a slim three-point margin.
However, the third quarter proved pivotal as Dominican's offense ignited, embarking on a 21-10 run that would shape the course of the game. Despite a resilient effort from the Sharks, they were unable to overcome the deficit, ultimately falling to a 2-4 record in the PacWest Conference.
Ella Berge emerged as a standout for HPU, leading the squad with 12 points. Jordyn Jensen and Obrey each contributed eight points in the effort. Noteworthy was the defensive prowess of Megan Jones, who accumulated four blocks in the game. This marked the eighth time this season that Jones showcased had at least four blocks in a game and extends her commanding lead over Point Loma's Eiley Tippins by 16-blocks for the conference lead.
As the Sharks regroup, their focus now shifts to maintaining their PacWest Tournament hopes alive. Upcoming matchups against island rivals Chaminade and Hilo will provide critical opportunities for HPU to bounce back and earn some bragging rights.