Pioneer Women's Basketball Finishes Season on Senior Night
HAYWARD, Calif. - The Cal State East Bay women's basketball team concluded their 2024-25 season Saturday evening, falling to No. 5 Cal State Dominguez Hills 94-56 at Pioneer Gymnasium. The game, which marked Senior Night for the Pioneers, saw a spirited start but ultimately showcased the Toros' dominance in CCAA play.
Prior to tipoff, Cal State East Bay honored four seniors: Kelsey Valencia, Brooke Donnelly, Kayla Rosemon, and Joia Armstrong.
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GAME SUMMARY |
The Pioneers started strong, taking an early 7-4 lead after senior Kelsey Valencia sank a 3-pointer. However, the Toros (record not provided) quickly responded, closing out the first quarter with a 10-4 run to lead 14-9.
Cal State Dominguez Hills tightened their grip in the second quarter, holding the Pioneers without a field goal until the 4:24 mark. This defensive stand allowed the Toros to extend their lead to 34-19 by halftime.
The third quarter saw the Toros' advantage grow steadily, reaching as much as 28 points. Entering the final period with a 64-38 lead, CSUDH maintained their momentum, ultimately securing a 94-56 victory to close out the regular season.
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NOTABLE STATS |
- Joia Armstrong capped off her regular-season career with a double-double, scoring 13 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. The senior forward showcased efficiency, shooting 3-for-6 from the floor and 7-for-8 from the free-throw line.
- Kelsey Valencia contributed 12 points, including two crucial three-pointers that kept the Pioneers competitive early in the game.
- Ariyah Smith demonstrated her playmaking abilities with seven assists, bringing her season total to 99 - the fourth-highest in the CCAA. Smith's defensive prowess was also on display with four steals, finishing the regular season with 64, tied for third in the conference.
- Defensively, Armstrong and Aunika Hornung each recorded three blocks, highlighting the team's effort to protect the paint.
- Cal State East Bay shot a respectable 40.7% from the field, compared to the Toros' 44.2%.
- The rebounding battle remained close, with CSUDH holding a slight 46-40 edge.
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RECORDS |
Cal State East Bay: 9-19, 7-15 CCAA
No. 5 CSUDH: 29-1, 21-1 CCAA
Under the guidance of head coach Jenny Thigpin, the Pioneers conclude their 2024-25 campaign with a 9-19 overall record.
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