TURLOCK --- The Cal State Stanislaus women’s basketball team was eliminated from postseason aspirations Thursday night as they fell to Cal State Dominguez Hills 72-68 in a must win game. With the win, the Toros clinched the eighth and final CCAA tournament spot with help from Chico State who defeated Cal State Los Angeles 70-42.
The Warriors came out hot, jumping out to a 12-0 lead to begin the game, but the Toros never wavered and eventually took the lead just over two minutes into the second half. The Toros then extended their lead to as much as eight points and despite a furious Warrior rally in the final minute they were able to hang on for the four point victory.
Toro guard Jessica Liang was the story of the game, netting 30 points going 11-for-15 from the field and eight for nine from three point territory. Liang was also appointed the task of guarding Warrior scoring leader Shristy Kumar. Kumar finished the night one for eight from the field and only 3 points.
Freshman Katie Busi collected her fourth double-double of the season scoring 18 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. She connected on seven of her nine shots including three of three from behind the arc. She also added a career high five blocked shots. Lysandra Williams scored 22 points and grabbed four rebounds.
The Warriors shot 46.9 percent from the field for the game while the Toros shot 45.3 percent. However, the Toros outshot the Warriors in the second half 48.4 percent to 39.1 percent.
The Warriors (6-19, 4-15 CCAA) will finish out the season tomorrow night when they host the Golden Eagles from Cal State Los Angeles. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. at Warrior Arena. It will be the final game for Warrior seniors Shristy Kumar and Amanda Everett.