IRVINE, Calif. - In the first game back for the year 2024, the Golden Eagles faced off against the University Hawaii Hilo Vulcans.

To begin Tuesday's game, the Golden Eagles focused on the defensive side. Holding the Vulcans to only 10 first-quarter points and making it a 15-10 game going into the second quarter. Riding that defensive momentum, CUI took full advantage of the Vulcans offensive struggles in the second quarter.

In the second quarter, the Golden Eagles put together a defensive masterclass against the Vulcans. CUI held Hilo to shooting only 8%, going 1/12 from the field. The offense started to ignite for the Golden Eagles, and they put together a 12-2 run to end the first half, making it 30-16 going into the second half.

Coming back from the half, the Golden Eagles picked their offense right back where they left it, starting with a Cameron Kiernan three and a layup by Stephanie Lee. Kiernan was a crucial key player for the Golden Eagles, who led CUI in scoring with 14 points, grabbing three rebounds, two assists, and stealing three Vulcans passes while hitting two of the four threes made for CUI.

The Golden Eagles held back a fierce last-second run from the Vulcans, opening up the new year with a win and final score of 62-55. Other Golden Eagles who made significant contributions was Izzy Navarro, who had 12 points, three rebounds, and two big blocks. Hannah Vela had nine points while getting two steals. Last but certainly not least, Erika Maggard was everywhere for the Golden Eagles tonight, posting seven points, grabbing three rebounds, assisting two of her teammates, and stealing three Vulcan passes.

Catch more women's basketball later in the week with another free admissions game being played on Thursday, January 4th. CLICK HERE to view their full schedule.