LA MIRADA, Calif. – The new-look Concordia University Irvine women's basketball team got off to a fantastic start in its season opener on Friday against Cal State San Bernardino.

The Golden Eagles came out on fire and dropped 30 points in the opening period. The Golden Eagles led 15-0 early on and sped up the 'Yotes in the first few possessions to force multiple turnovers.

Concordia led by as many as 20 but Cal State San Bernardino got back on track in the second quarter to climb back into the game. CUI led 42-34 at the half.

Ashari Cassell made her debut and scored eight of her 16 points in the first half. The transfer from Cal State LA was 6-for-8 from the free throw line while her sister Princess Cassell scored a game-high 18 points for the 'Yotes.

In addition to both sisters leading their team in scoring, both had crucial buckets late in the game. Princess Cassell hit a clutch trey to help CSUSB move in front, while Ashari responded with a huge And-1 driving layup to tie the game at 72-72.

Both teams were adept at drawing offensive charges. Camryn Kiernan drew multiple offensive fouls throughout the contest. Unfortunately for the Green and Gold, Ashari Cassell had a driving layup waived off in the final minute due to an offensive foul and the Yotes escaped with a 74-72 win.
Junior point guard Hannah Vela also scored a career-high 16 points to help the cause. The Concordia SAAC rep also helped set the tone with her on-ball defense.

A number of new Golden Eagles made key contributions and scored their first baskets for the Green and Gold. Myia Collins scored 14 points and secured nine rebounds. Genesis Hopkins collected four points to go with a team-high 10 rebounds.

Freshman Asia Darcuiel also looked sharp and made four field goals before halftime. Darcuiel finished with nine points off the bench and new teammate Christen Ziska also joined her in the scoring column with a three-pointer.  Returners Camryn Kiernan and Kayla Cabaccang combined for 10 points

CUI is right back at it on Saturday with its second game in as many days to open the season. The Golden Eagles play Westminster at 1 p.m. at the same neutral location over at Biola University.

CUI's home opener is next Friday, Nov. 21 at 5 p.m. against Western Washington as part of the PacWest/GNAC Challenge. It's part of a four-game tournament hosted by Concordia over a two day span.

CLICK HERE for the full CUI women's basketball schedule