Despite four different players scoring in double-figures, Master's could not overcome the unrelentless and consistent offense of Azusa Pacific in a 74-62 loss Thursday night in The MacArthur Center.
As a team the Lady Mustangs shot over 42% from the field and out-scored the Cougars 38-32 in points in the paint. However, it was the outside shooting of the Cougars' Paige Uyehara that Master's could not answer as the All-PacWest guard pumped in 30 points.
"Azusa has another very competitive team this year," said Head Coach Lisa Zamroz. "We're grateful for the opportunity to play high-level basketball early in the year to give us clarity on our weaknesses. We are a new group with many players stepping into bigger roles. We showed moments of who we will become, but we are still finding our footing."
In her first game as a Mustang, Belle Hernandez, a transfer from NCAA Division 1 San Diego State, dropped in 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting to lead Master's. Allyson Pettit scored 13 points, Lexi Hernandez (sister of Bela) added 12 and All-GSAC returner Ella Brubaker contributed 11. Madeline Cooke led Master's with seven rebounds.
"Belle led us in scoring and will continue to be a tough matchup for opponents because of her size and ability to shoot behind the arc," Zamroz said. "Having four players in double digits is huge for us. We are a more balanced team this year. We look forward to all the Lord has in store for this group!"
Master's women's basketball will open up the 2022-23 season for real on Thursday as they host the La Sierra Eagles in The MacArthur Center. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m.
