AZUSA, Calif. — The Concordia University Irvine women's basketball team fought through four tightly contested quarters but came up short in a 62–54 loss to Azusa Pacific on Thursday night.

The Golden Eagles stayed within striking distance throughout, shooting 35.8 percent from the field and knocking down five three-pointers, but APU closed the game on a late run in the fourth quarter to secure the victory.

CUI was led by Cadence Tarrant, who finished with 13 points, adding three rebounds and two assists. Sophie McWatt contributed nine points and two rebounds, while Cadence Williams added solid minutes off the bench.

After trailing by just five at halftime, the Golden Eagles kept pace in the third quarter, shooting 46.7 percent from the floor in the period. CUI cut the deficit to just three points late in the fourth quarter, but Azusa Pacific responded with timely baskets and free throws down the stretch to pull away.

The Golden Eagles forced 14 turnovers and totaled 31 rebounds, but were held to just one field goal in the final quarter.

CUI will look to bounce back as they return home on Friday, Feb. 7, when they host Hawai'i Hilo inside the CU Arena. The game is scheduled for 5 p.m.