Box Score IRVINE, CA. - On Monday evening, the Concordia Irvine women's basketball team were up in Fresno looking to extend their winning streak against the Sunbirds. The Golden Eagles entered the matchup unbeaten in their past eleven games and shared first place with Azusa Pacific.

In the first half, Concordia was able to put multiple runs together to lead 44-28 at halftime. With this Dominican failing to upset APU for the second time, the Golden Eagles needed to put this game out of reach to ensure they would remain at the top.

In the second half, Fresno Pacific would come alive despite CUI's lead growing to a staggering 17 points. The Sunbirds out scored the Golden Eagles 30-14 to tie the game heading into the final 10 minutes of regulation.

Foul trouble became a big factor for both teams as over 60 free throw attempts were taken. Concordia and FPU would continue to trade tough baskets back and forth down the stretch, but the Sunbirds were able to take a two point lead with less than 30 seconds left. With the game on the line Jasmine Rachal rose to the occasion and got a layup to even the score. Then Concordia was able to stop a last-ditch buzzer beater attempt to send the game into overtime.


Unfortunately Fresno Pacific would come away with a 80-77 victory, as they took advantage of CUI shooting 1-10 in the final frame. Rachal led CUI with another 20 point performance and Teagan Thurman collected her sixth double-double of the season. This loss knocked CUI down to a 13-2 record in PacWest play, but the chase for the conference title is far from over. With five games left in the regular season, the Golden Eagles still have opportunity to clinch their first PacWest title on Senior Night in what will be one the biggest games for CUI in the NCAA-era.

To see the full CUI men's basketball schedule CLICK HERE.

CUI will be on the road this Saturday, Feb. 7 at 2:00 p.m. against Point Loma.