HONOLULU, Hawai'i — Hawai'i Pacific University women's basketball showed early momentum but could not hold off UC Merced's second-half surge, falling 67–57 at home on Friday evening.

The Sharks opened the game with their strongest quarter of the young season, outscoring the Bobcats 19–7 behind efficient ball movement and balanced scoring. HPU carried that energy into the second frame before UC Merced began to settle in, trimming the lead to 30–27 at halftime.

The turning point came in the third quarter, where the Bobcats shot 8-for-10 from the field and 3-for-3 from beyond the arc, outscoring HPU 22–10 to take control. Despite a late push by the Sharks in the fourth, UC Merced maintained its advantage through steady interior scoring and timely perimeter shooting.

Alana Roberts led the way for HPU with 11 points on 5-for-9 shooting. Jalen Samuel added 12 points, including three three-pointers, while Mya Hatchett contributed nine points and four rebounds. Lucia Ricci continued to make an impact on the glass with a team-high nine rebounds. The Sharks also received strong production from their bench, combining for 26 points.

UC Merced was led by Nicole Lukito, who finished with 22 points and 13 rebounds, and Paloma Ramirez with 16 points.

HPU moves to 0–3 on the season and will continue non-conference play next week as they look to build on early-season growth and momentum.