The women's basketball team played two back-to-back overtime contests and settled for a split. The Golden Eagles came from behind to defeat Simpson University, 77-72, on Saturday night. Forced with the task of tipping off just 14 hours after the conclusion of Saturday night's contest, the team let a late lead slip away, falling to Pacific Union, 76-71.
In Saturday night's action the team was able to overcome a slow start to steal the victory. After the first quarter of play, the Golden Eagles trailed 21-7. They were able to find their footing in the second quarter and went into the halftime break down 40-24.
La Sierra came out of the locker room determined to close the gap and that they did. By the end of the three quarter, Simpson's lead was down to 50-46 and tied at 66-66 at the end of regulation. The Redhawks had the ball and a chance to win the game in regulation but never got a shot off in the final seconds.
In the overtime period, the Golden Eagles scored the first basket and converted from the free-throw line to complete the comeback.
Amanda Sanchez led the team with 22 points and 11 rebounds. Korie Siets came off the bench to score 13 points and pull down four rebounds, while Elisa Mejia added 12 points in the victory. Celina Calderon tallied 11 points to round out the scoring leaders for the Golden Eagles.
La Sierra out-rebounded Simpson, 47-39, including 20-5 on the offensive boards.
On Sunday, the Golden Eagles let a 10-point lead slip away in the final 3:38 and eventually lost in overtime.
After taking control of the game in the second quarter, La Sierra took a 41-36 lead into the half. But the Golden Eagles were unable to close things out and let the Pioneers steal the victory.
Both teams struggled to take care of the ball, combining for a total of 53 turnovers. La Sierra also outrebounded the Pioneers 50-44.
Pacific Union had six players who scored in double figures and two who finished with 10 rebounds each for a double-double.
Amanda Sanchez notched her second straight double-double with 10 points and 15 rebounds. Rachel Hahn scored a game-high 21 points, while Calderon added 13 points and Mejia had 10 points.
The team returns home this week to play their final two home games of the season. On Thursday, the Golden Eagles will host the University of California – Merced, followed by Senior Night on Saturday when the team welcomes California Maritime Academy.
