ATHERTON, CA – In their highly anticipated PacWest opener, the Oaks Women's Basketball team faced a challenging contest against the Azusa Pacific Cougars. Despite a determined effort and standout individual performances, the Oaks fell short, losing 67-82. The game, held at Haynes-Prim Pavilion, showcased both teams' competitive spirit and provided a glimpse into the intense battles ahead in the PacWest conference.

Oak Stars

Despite falling short, Menlo's fierce competitiveness still showed through bright moments. 

• Erin Sellers led Menlo's offense with 20 points, shooting an efficient 6-of-12 from the field and converting 8-of-13 free throws. She also contributed 7 rebounds and 2 assists.

• Jordyn Rosette showcased her all-around game with 13 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals, and 3 assists, playing 26 impactful minutes.

• Mehkia Applewhite was a force in the paint, adding 9 points, 7 rebounds, 2 blocks, and a steal while shooting 50% from the floor.

• Jesni Cooper chipped in with 8 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and a steal, demonstrating her versatility.

Late Scoring Burst Not Enough to Overcome Deficit

In a hard-fought PacWest opener, Menlo Women's Basketball fell 67-82 to the Cougars of Azusa Pacific at Haynes-Prim Pavilion. The game was marked by intense defense, rapid scoring runs, and standout performances on both sides.

Menlo showed promising efficiency, shooting 41% from the field compared to Azusa Pacific's 36%. However, turnovers proved costly, with Menlo committing 24 compared to the Cougars' 19. Despite the turnovers, Menlo's defense excelled in disrupting plays, recording 14 steals to Azusa Pacific's 20.

The Cougars' relentless offensive rebounding (22) created numerous second-chance opportunities. Conversely, Menlo struggled to convert on similar opportunities, managing only 4 second-chance points from their 10 offensive boards. Both teams excelled in the paint, with each scoring 34 points, highlighting physical and tactical battles down low.

Erin Sellers kept the Oaks competitive with her scoring burst and trips to the free-throw line, while Jordyn Rosette's hustle on both ends provided crucial momentum during key stretches. Despite their efforts, Azusa Pacific's depth and perimeter shooting—knocking down 10 three-pointers—proved to be the deciding factors. Menlo will look to tighten their ball-handling and capitalize on transition opportunities as they prepare for their next matchup in the PacWest.

Up Next…

The Oaks host the Lions of Vanguard on Saturday, December 7th at 12pm inside Haynes-Prim Pavilion for another PacWest showdown.