SAN FRANCISCO Calif. - In a defensive battle at the historic Kezar Pavilion, the Hawai'i Pacific University (HPU) women's basketball team faced off against the Academy of Art Urban Knights, ultimately succumbing to a 55-44 loss. The Sharks, entered the game with a 3-5 overall record and an even 1-1 mark in PacWest Conference play. HPU entered the new year coming off a victorious stint at the 2023 Hoops in Hawaii Classic, where they toppled the fifth-ranked NAIA team, Carroll College. 

In the opening two quarters showcased a tenacious defensive effort by the Sharks, spearheaded by forward Megan Jones. The junior forward asserted her dominance with an astonishing five blocks in the first half, providing a formidable presence in the paint. Her performance translated into a slim 30-28 lead for HPU as they headed into the halftime break.

However, the tides shifted in the second half as the Academy of Art's defense tightened its grip on the contest. The Sharks struggled to find their offensive rhythm, managing only seven points in each of the final frames. The Urban Knights capitalized on this momentum swing, amassing 27 crucial second-half points, securing a hard-fought 55-44 win on their home court.

Leslie Mojica emerged as a standout for the Sharks, leading the team with a new career-high of 10 rebounds. Erika Glenn contributed eight points, shooting an efficient 50% from the field. Despite the tough loss, the afternoon in the Bay Area wasn't without its silver lining.

Jones, after an elite first half, etched her name in the school record books with an astounding eight blocks in the game, setting a new benchmark for shot-blocking excellence at HPU. She now holds the single-game blocks record for HPU and pending other NCAA D2 games, leads the nation in blocks per game with 4.33.

Despite the setback, the Blue and White look ahead to redemption as they prepare to face Dominican University in San Rafael this Thursday.