LA MIRADA, Calif. – Jessup Women's Basketball team (5-15, 3-11 PacWest) faced a challenging road environment on Saturday evening, falling to Biola University (10-8, 7-6 PacWest) by a final score of 38-49.
In a game defined by defensive intensity and limited scoring opportunities, the Warriors battled to keep the contest within reach until the final whistle. The first half was a low-scoring affair, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm offensively. Jessup trailed by just three after the first quarter and went into the locker room down 21-17, thanks to a gritty defensive effort that forced several Biola turnovers.
The Warriors found success on the defensive end throughout the night, recording 15 steals and forcing Biola into 22 total turnovers. However, a tough third quarter proved to be the difference, as Biola outscored the Warriors 19-10 in the frame to extend their lead to double digits.
Despite the deficit, Jessup's bench provided a significant spark, contributing 16 points to the total. The Warriors also fought hard in the paint, matching the Eagles' physical play and scoring 16 points inside.
Leading the way for Jessup was Laia Palà, who finished as the lone Warrior in double figures with 10 points while adding three steals and two rebounds. Hailey Hoff provided a lift with nine points, all coming from beyond the arc on 3-of-6 shooting. Porter Wood anchored the interior with seven points and six rebounds, while Raylyn Fergerson flirted with a double-double, tallying six points and a team-high seven rebounds to go along with three assists. Aniah Cross added four points and a team-best four steals in the defensive effort.
The Warriors will look to regroup as they continue their road trip through Southern California. Jessup returns to action on Monday, February 2nd, as they head to Santa Barbara to take on Westmont College. Tip-off is set for 5:30 PM.