The San Diego State University women’s basketball team defeated UC Irvine 61-55 in the first round of the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament on March 19 at the University of San Diego’s Jenny Craig Pavilion. The Aztecs will advance to host McNeese on Sunday at USD.
The game was closely contested, featuring 12 lead changes and nine ties. In the final moments, San Diego State forced three turnovers and made key free throws, finishing with an 8-0 run to secure the win.
Head coach Stacie Terry-Hutson said after the game, “We were locked in at the end. We knew who they were going to go to, so we made sure it was somewhat challenging for them.”
Naomi Panganiban led SDSU with her third consecutive game scoring more than 20 points, finishing with 22 points and making all nine of her free throw attempts. Kennedy Lee contributed 11 points and eight rebounds, while Bailey Barnhard set career highs with nine rebounds and five assists.
Both teams struggled offensively in the first half. After a tie at the end of the first quarter, SDSU opened the second quarter with a 9-0 run for their largest lead before UC Irvine responded with a 7-0 run. Offense increased in the third quarter as UCI scored 15 points in five minutes, but SDSU rallied to take a one-point lead into the fourth quarter. The teams traded baskets until SDSU pulled away late.
UC Irvine was led by Hunter Hernandez, who scored 19 points.
The Aztecs were perfect from the free throw line, making all 13 attempts—a mark tied for their most consecutive makes without a miss since at least 1999. This victory marks San Diego State’s first postseason win since 2013 and brings their season total to 26 wins, tying for second most in school history.
Terry-Hutson commented on playing at USD: “It was loud in there and it felt like a home game. I want to challenge everyone to come back. This is a perfect size arena for a home court advantage, and we are going to need everyone’s help Sunday.”
San Diego State will next face McNeese on Sunday at USD due to Viejas Arena hosting NCAA men’s tournament games.
