The Library Media — Sports · Sports Desk
California Baptist Finishes Strong to Beat Pacific 86-63 in Home Opener
By Megan McCarthy
Photo: California Baptist University / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
RIVERSIDE, California — California Baptist turned a shaky start into a commanding home-opening victory, defeating Pacific 86-63 to remain unbeaten at 3-0.
The Lancers fell behind 7-2 early but responded with a 25-9 run to close the first quarter and take control. They carried that momentum into the second period, holding Pacific to just six points and building a 45-22 halftime advantage at the Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler Events Center.
Spela Brecelj led California Baptist with 19 points and six rebounds, scoring 12 of those points in the second quarter. Lauren Olsen added 16 points, and five Lancers finished in double figures.
The second quarter was particularly difficult for Pacific. The Tigers managed no field goal until the final 32 seconds of the half and shot just 7% in the period. California Baptist took advantage, extending its lead from nine after the opening quarter to 23 by halftime.
Pacific found a response after the break. The Tigers opened the third quarter on a 10-4 run and outscored the Lancers 23-13 in the period, cutting the deficit to 13 points entering the fourth.
California Baptist answered with its strongest offensive quarter of the game. The Lancers scored 28 points in the fourth, shooting 70% from the field and 75% from three-point range. Their largest lead reached 28 points, at 86-58, with 1:09 remaining.
The Lancers finished the game shooting 45% overall and 50% from three. Their work creating turnovers also made a major difference: California Baptist forced 28 Pacific turnovers and held a 38-13 advantage in points off turnovers.
Pacific had two players, Mindermann and Rivera, reach double figures. The Tigers fell to 1-2.
The victory also marked a milestone for California Baptist head coach Jarrod Olson. It was his 322nd win at the program, the most in its history.
After trailing early and weathering Pacific’s third-quarter push, California Baptist finished decisively to open its home schedule with a win and preserve its unbeaten start.
Megan McCarthy
Women’s College Basketball, The Library Media
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