HONOLULU—The University of Hawai’i women’s water polo team suffered a heartbreaking 14-13 shootout loss to No. 3 USC on Wednesday evening at the Duke Kahanamoku Aquatic Complex. The fifth-ranked Rainbow Wahine (11-5, 4-0 Big West) battled fiercely against a formidable opponent, showcasing a resilient performance that ultimately fell just short. The game, a physical contest with 28 total exclusions, highlighted the competitive nature of collegiate water polo and set the stage for Hawai’i’s upcoming Big West matchup.
The loss doesn’t diminish a strong start to conference play for the Rainbow Wahine, who entered the contest with a 4-0 record in Big West competition. This game against USC, a perennial powerhouse in women’s water polo, served as a crucial test for the team as they navigate their season. The intensity of the match, combined with the narrow margin of defeat, underscores the growing strength of the Hawai’i program and its ability to compete at a national level.
Vernoux Leads Offensive Charge, Logtens Shines in Goal
Ema Vernoux spearheaded the Hawai’i offense, matching her season high with five goals. Her scoring prowess proved vital in keeping the Rainbow Wahine within striking distance throughout the game. Daisy Logtens delivered another standout performance in goal, recording 11 saves – her fifth consecutive double-digit save performance and eighth of the season. Logtens’ ability to thwart USC’s attacks was instrumental in maintaining a competitive edge. The team collectively held USC to 14-for-37 shooting (.378) and limited their power play opportunities, converting only 1 of 6 attempts.
A Back-and-Forth Battle at the Duke Kahanamoku Aquatic Complex
The contest began with USC drawing first blood on a penalty shot. Yet, Hawai’i quickly responded with a 3-0 scoring run. Ariadna Temprano Xambó initiated the surge with a power-play goal, followed by scores from Vernoux and Tara Logan. USC answered with another penalty shot, but Karly Frangieh extended Hawai’i’s lead to 4-2 after the first quarter, capitalizing on an assist from Gabrielle Doyle. Logtens anchored the defense in the opening frame, making four saves and holding the Trojans to 2-for-9 shooting.
The second quarter saw continued back-and-forth action. USC scored early on a power play, but Vernoux converted a penalty shot and Agatha Weston added another goal to put Hawai’i ahead. USC closed the gap with two goals of their own, leaving the Rainbow Wahine with a narrow 6-5 lead at halftime.
Second-Half Drama and a Shootout Decision
The third quarter proved to be a pivotal period. USC capitalized on two penalty shots to regain the lead, but Hawai’i responded with goals from Roni Perlman on a 6-on-5 advantage and another penalty goal from Vernoux, completing her hat trick. USC then embarked on a 3-0 run to establish a 10-8 advantage. Vernoux continued to ignite the Hawai’i offense, scoring two goals in quick succession to tie the game at 10-10. Doyle then converted on a power play, forcing an 11-11 tie heading into the final quarter.
Perlman opened the fourth quarter with a goal, giving Hawai’i the lead once more. However, USC responded with a 3-0 run to regain control. Weston converted another penalty shot at the 3:49 mark, narrowing the deficit to one. In the final minute, a USC shot clock violation provided Hawai’i with a crucial opportunity. Raha Peiravani drew an exclusion, but Weston’s game-tying attempt in the closing seconds was denied, sending the game to a shootout where USC ultimately prevailed.
Next Up: A Big West Clash with CSUN
The Rainbow Wahine will seem to rebound quickly as they resume Big West play against CSUN on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. HT at the Duke Kahanamoku Aquatic Complex. Historical data shows a competitive series between the two teams. This match presents an opportunity for Hawai’i to continue its pursuit of a Big West title and build momentum as the season progresses. Fans can find more information about the Hawai’i women’s water polo team and upcoming games on the official Hawai’i Athletics website.
The team’s resilience and offensive firepower, as demonstrated by Vernoux and Logtens, provide a solid foundation for continued success. The upcoming contest against CSUN will be a key test as the Rainbow Wahine aim to maintain their position as a top contender in the Big West Conference.
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