The Cal Poly women's basketball team concluded their non-conference schedule with a decisive 66-58 victory over Southern Utah. Despite facing formidable opponents earlier in the season, including top-tier teams like UCLA and USC, the Mustangs demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. A strong start, led by accurate three-point shooting, set the tone for the game. However, turnovers posed a significant challenge in the second quarter, temporarily disrupting their momentum. Ultimately, standout performances from key players ensured the Mustangs secured an important win, setting a positive trajectory as they enter Big West play.

A Fast Start Paves the Way to Victory

The Mustangs established dominance early in the game, showcasing their offensive prowess with a series of successful three-pointers. This aggressive approach allowed them to build an impressive lead right from the opening minutes. The first quarter was particularly noteworthy, as the team outscored the Thunderbirds by a significant margin, ending the period with a commanding advantage. Senior guard Annika Shah played a pivotal role, contributing multiple three-pointers and quickly accumulating points. Her performance energized the team and set the stage for what would be a challenging but ultimately successful match.

In the initial stages of the game, the Mustangs' offense was nearly unstoppable. They capitalized on their fast-paced strategy, converting several opportunities into points. Shah's contributions were crucial, not only for her scoring but also for stretching the defense with her long-range shooting. The team's ability to maintain composure and execute their game plan effectively allowed them to establish a substantial lead that would prove vital later in the contest. The Thunderbirds struggled to keep up with the Mustangs' pace, leading to a lopsided score at the end of the first quarter.

Overcoming Challenges through Team Effort

Despite a strong start, the Mustangs faced setbacks in the second quarter when increased defensive pressure from the Thunderbirds forced several turnovers. The absence of Shah due to early fouls further disrupted the team's rhythm, resulting in a scoring drought. However, the Mustangs remained resilient, relying on their depth and teamwork to weather the storm. Key players stepped up, ensuring that the lead, though narrowed, was not lost entirely. Their ability to adapt and respond to adversity showcased the team's maturity and determination.

As the game progressed, the Thunderbirds attempted to capitalize on the Mustangs' mistakes, particularly through turnovers. These errors became a recurring issue for Cal Poly throughout the season, often hindering their ability to maintain control. Nevertheless, the Mustangs managed to regroup and refocus. Sophomore guard Mary Carter delivered a standout performance with a double-double, combining scoring and rebounding to disrupt the Thunderbirds' rhythm. Meanwhile, Shah returned to form, finishing with an impressive 25 points, just shy of her career-high. Together, these efforts secured a hard-fought victory, positioning the Mustangs well for their upcoming conference games.