HAYWARD, Calif. - The Cal State East Bay women's basketball team continued their winning streak, securing a convincing 70-53 victory over Cal State Monterey Bay on Thursday evening at Pioneer Gymnasium. This marks the Pioneers' third consecutive win.
 

GAME SUMMARY

The Pioneers showcased their resilience and teamwork, overcoming a slow start to take control of the game. After trailing 12-8 at the end of the first quarter, East Bay found their rhythm in the second period, outscoring the Otters 19-14 to take a narrow 27-26 lead into halftime.

The third quarter proved to be the turning point for the Pioneers. East Bay's defense played a significant role in the win, forcing turnovers and converting them into points. The home team extended its lead with a 21-11 run, building a 48-37 advantage heading into the final frame.

Cal State East Bay maintained their momentum in the fourth quarter, showcasing efficient shooting and strong defensive play. The Pioneers outscored the Otters 22-16 in the final period to secure the 17-point victory.

NOTABLE STATS

• Ariyah Smith led the charge for East Bay with a game-high 20 points, shooting an efficient 8-for-12 from the floor and 2-for-2 from the free-throw line. It was Smith's fourth straight game scoring in double figures.
• Lailah Carey contributed a career-high 13 points, demonstrating her growing impact on the team.
• Joia Armstrong dominated the glass, pulling down a team-high 9 rebounds.
• The Pioneers' defense was relentless, with Smith recording 4 steals and the team forcing 22 turnovers, which they converted into 24 points.
• Cal State East Bay shot an impressive 51.9 percent from the floor, compared to Cal State Monterey Bay's 31.7 percent.

POSTGAME QUOTE

Cal State East Bay head coach Jenny Thigpin praised her team's performance, stating:
"It was a great team victory for us tonight on our home court. We got off to a slow start early, but we competed on the defensive end which allowed us to stay in the game. I'm proud of our team's growth over this homestand but we have to put this game away and focus on our next opponent."
 

RECORDS

Cal State East Bay: 6-7, 4-3 CCAA
Cal State Monterey Bay: 3-10, 0-7 CCAA
 

UP NEXT FOR CAL STATE EAST BAY

The Pioneers will look to extend their winning streak as they host Stanislaus State in another CCAA contest this coming Saturday, January 11. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. at Pioneer Gymnasium in Hayward, California, marking the final game of the current homestand.