ROHNERT PARK, CALIF.- Sonoma State Women's Basketball has kickstarted both a winning streak and CCAA play thanks to a three point, gritty victory over the visiting Cougars of Cal State San Marcos. It was a game highlighted by defensive play and a strong closing push by the Seawolves as they pulled out the win to start conference play 1-0.

As a team Sonoma State did a great job slowing down the Cougars by playing defense and rebounding. They held the visiting team to only 36% shooting from the floor and 22% from deep. On top of limiting quality looks at the rim, Sonoma also forced 15 turnovers and dominated on the glass. They would grab an impressive 21 offensive boards which led to 15 second chance points and 18 free throw attempts, which led to 14 makes at the charity stripe.

Individually, Alysa Lopez took the game over in the second half of play. Through the first 20 minutes of action she was limited to three points. Yet, coming out of halftime she simply dominated the Cougars while attacking the rim. Lopez compiled 18 points in the second half and ended the game with a team high 21 points while grabbing five rebounds and shooting 50% from the floor. 

Off the bench the duo of Paige Pentzer and Eryn Gardner controlled the paint all game long. Not only did they combine for 15 rebounds but Gardner was everywhere on defense as she swiped two steals and blocked a shot.

It was a solid showing for the team who proved they can win games with defense and rebounding as the driving forces of a victory. The team now shifts their focus to next Thursday when Cal State San Bernardino makes the trip to the Wolves Den for a 5:30 PM tip-off!