After beginning PacWest play on Thursday, the Eagles traveled to San Francisco to take on Academy of Art University in search of their first win on Saturday.  The Eagles started fast and never looked back.

Riley Friauf got the scoring started for CUI, knocking in a quick hoop, and then Kennedy Fulcher added two quick baskets to give the Eagles a 6-0 lead.  Later in the quarter, the Eagles used their balanced offensive attack to run off nine straight and extend their lead to double figures. 

Throughout the rest of the first half, the Eagles kept the pressure on the Knights, matching every run they made with a run of their own.  Though the Knights were able to cut into the lead, the Eagles entered the break leading 41-36.

The third quarter was a back and forth affair.  The Eagles were able to extend their lead back up to 11, but the Knights closed strong, remaining in striking distance.  At the end of three quarters, CUI led 59-50.

The Eagles were ten minutes away from their first win of the season when the fourth quarter began.  If the Knights were to make a run and steal away victory from the Eagles, they would have to get stops, but it wasn't going to come easy.  The Concordia offense was on fire in the final period.  Michaela VanderKlugt, Riley Friauf, and especially Kennedy Fulcher were relentless in their attack.  The Eagles opened up the game, dominated the fourth quarter, and pulled away for an 83-59 win. 

"We have been close to putting a full game together and it is starting to come in sync for this group in terms of communication, being tougher than adversity, and having flow in our offense," said Concordia head coach Christine Collins-Kiernan.  "As we continue to grow defensively and develop a consistent focused mentality we can do some good things moving forward.  Doing all of that in a physical game away from the comforts of our Eagles Nest is a good sign."

The Eagles outshot the Knights from the floor, knocking in 45.9 percent of their shots and holding the Knights to just 32 percent.  CUI was able to knock in seven three pointers, as well, and made 20 of their 25 free throw attempts.

Fulcher was the big star for CUI.  She finished with career highs with 30 points and 18 rebounds to help the Eagles collect their first win of the season.

"Kennedy had a break through today, her motor is unmatched and when she plays with focus, balance and poise she is one of the top players in the conference," added Collins-Kiernan. "She instantly raises our level of play and competitiveness that is hard to compete against."

The Eagles return home and take on Azusa Pacific in their next game on Wednesday, December 5.  The game will tip at 5:30 pm at CU Arena. Fans are encouraged to wear something festive on "Ugly Christmas Sweater Night."