HAYWARD, Calif. — The Cal State East Bay women's basketball team fell to Fresno Pacific 61-48 in a non-conference matchup Saturday afternoon at Pioneer Gymnasium.
 

 
The Pioneers struggled to find their offensive rhythm throughout the game, as Fresno Pacific took control early and maintained their lead throughout the contest.

The Sunbirds jumped out to an early lead, ending the first quarter with a 15-9 advantage. Cal State East Bay's offense continued to struggle in the second quarter, managing only nine points as Fresno Pacific extended their lead to 28-18 at halftime.

The third quarter saw the Pioneers attempt to close the gap, with Akaka finding her shooting touch. However, Fresno Pacific's balanced attack,  kept the Sunbirds comfortably ahead.

Despite outscoring Fresno Pacific 18-17 in the final quarter, the Pioneers couldn't overcome the deficit.

• Aloha Akaka led the Pioneers with 17 points, going 7-for-14 from the floor and adding two blocks and a steal.
• With three steals for East Bay was Taylor Eldredge. 
• Gwendilyn Aasland contributed a strong presence on the boards, pulling down a team-high 13 rebounds.
• The Pioneers struggled to make baskets as evidenced by shooting just 26.5 percent from the field compared to the Sunbirds' 33.8 percent. 

Cal State East Bay head coach Jenny Thigpin acknowledged the team's offensive struggles:
"It's unfortunate that we had trouble scoring the basketball as we missed makeable shots and we found ourselves playing uphill all night. It is another early season learning experience but we will continue to work hard and get better as conference is approaching."
 

Cal State East Bay: 1-4
Fresno Pacific: 3-3
 

The Pioneers will look to bounce back in their next game against San Francisco State on Saturday, November 30 which opens CCAA play for both teams this season. Tip-off is scheduled for 1 p.m. at The Swamp at Don Nasser Family Plaza (Main Gym) in San Francisco.