HONOLULU, Hawai'i - On Tuesday afternoon the HPU women's basketball team suffered a tough 51-56 loss to the Azusa Pacific Cougars. The game showcased moments of intensity and a valiant effort from the Sharks, particularly in the first half, where they had the PacWest on upset alert by holding a three-point lead over the nationally-ranked Cougars.

The opening half saw a spirited performance from the Hawai'i Pacific squad, surprising their opponents with a strong start. Megan Jones emerged as a key contributor, collecting seven points to kick off the game. The Sharks' early lead had the PacWest on notice, signaling what could be the formula for one of the bigger upsets of the season.

However, the Azusa Pacific Cougars came alive in the second half, outscoring the Sharks 40-19 across the final two frames. The nationally-ranked squad showcased their offensive prowess and defensive solidity, regaining control of the game and ultimately securing the victory.

As the team reflects on the matchup, they will look to bounce back in their upcoming game against Point Loma. Closing their homestand on a positive note becomes a priority for the Sharks as they seek to rebound from the tough loss to Azusa Pacific.

The experience gained from facing a nationally-ranked opponent like Azusa Pacific, coupled with the competitive spirit exhibited in the first half, will serve as valuable lessons for the team. Looking ahead, the Sharks will aim to channel their resilience and determination into future games, building on the positives from their performance and seeking opportunities for success in the PacWest conference.