Box Score

Playing their third game in four nights, Cal State San Marcos women's basketball couldn't overcome a very good and almost assuredly under-ranked #20 Westmont College squad, losing 65-50 on their home court at MiraCosta College.

CSUSM drops to 1-4 on the season.  Westmont improves to 4-0.

The Cougars couldn't overcome Westmont's size up front, particularly #24 Tugce Canitez.  The 6'2” forward from Turkey was smooth with the ball and demonstrated plenty of range from distance, scoring 20 points on 8-for-13 shooting to go along with 13 rebounds and 5 assists.  Joining her up front was Lisa Peterson, who had her way down low, scoring 26 points on 10-for-14 shooting.

CSUSM didn't help itself either, committing 22 turnovers to Westmont's 12.  The Cougars were out-rebounded 40-32 and allowed 19 offensive rebounds, which were a critical factor in the loss.

It was a shame because CSUSM actually shot the ball well, as they have for the majority of the season thus far.  The Cougars shot 48.9% from the field as a team, but attempted 15 fewer shots than Westmont due to the turnovers and offensive rebounds.  Neither team shot well from the charity stripe, though Westmont's size created a vast gap in trips to the line.  The Cougars were 1-for-6 while Westmont was 11-for-25.

Justine Chacon led CSUSM with 12 points of 5-for-10 shooting.  Sidney Dobner had 10 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds, and was one of the Cougars who were aggressive in attacking the rim.  Post players Gabriell Munsch, 9 points and 5 rebounds, and Danielle Cooper, 8 points and 7 rebounds, were solid as well.

CSUSM will be back in action on the road against Concordia on Thursday, kicking off a stretch of four road games in as many days.