CEDAR CITY, Utah – The Warriors made their way to Utah for their first two games in the state as a part of a five-game, two-thousand-mile road trip. Jessup fought hard all game long but came up short, losing to Southern Utah, an NCAA Division I opponent, 74-46.
 
The Warriors continue to use these games to work as building blocks as the season moves along and GSAC play approaches. Head coach Hernando Planells routinely emphasizes that he and his team are ready to play anytime and anywhere to prepare.
 
"We want to be a team that will play anyone, anyplace, and anywhere." Planells added, "The team has really adopted that and is doing the best they can based on the situation."
 
Strong Start
 
In what was the Warriors' third game facing a Division I team, Jessup jumped out to a great start against the Thunderbirds. The opening frame was a well-balanced attack from Jessup as six different players scored, totaling 17 in the quarter.
 
Senior Miranda Zaragoza led the way with six points and four rebounds to start, while Maila Lepolo continued to shoot well from distance knocking down a 3-pointer.
 
Great Outing from Winter
 
Paige Winter continued her stellar freshman campaign as she led the Warriors in scoring with 11 points while also pulling down five rebounds and nabbing a steal. Winter showcased her scoring prowess as she scored from mid-range and converted on two of her three attempts from downtown.
 
Even though the season is still in its early stages, coach Planells likes the growth he sees from Winter. Planells said, "She's playing well and gives us a good spark off the bench."
 
Continuing on this, Planells touched on the transition from high school to college. "Paige is learning the college game, which is really intense with good competition night-in-night-out, and we are excited to see her continue to improve."
 
One more in Utah
 
The long road trip moves onward as the Warriors will take a venture further in the state of Utah to take the Wolverines of Utah Valley University, Thursday at 4 p.m.
 
With another formidable opponent on deck, Planells said, "The mindset is to rise up to the challenge of staying focused with the task at hand. We must make sure we are well-rested and prepared for anything Utah Valley throws at us."
 
Planells had a strong sense of gratitude for his team, noting, "This is a great way to prep for the GSAC. We are fighting and hungry, these girls are my heroes!"
   
William Jessup University is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and the Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC). For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on William Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: William Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Twitter & Instagram).