Toreros Surge Past LMU in Second Half, Secure 69-60 Victory
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LMU’s strong first-half performance wasn’t enough to hold off a determined San Diego team, who rallied for a 69-60 win Saturday at Jenny Craig Pavilion, fueled by a dominant fourth quarter. The Lions will look to rebound as they prepare to host the University of the Pacific on January 29, 2026.
First-Half Dominance Not Enough for Lions
Maya Hernandez and Jess Lawson spearheaded a strong start for LMU, but ultimately couldn’t prevent the Toreros from seizing control in the second half. Hernandez ignited the Lions’ offense early, scoring eight of their first ten points and establishing a 15-12 lead at the end of the first quarter. Her impact extended beyond scoring, as she disrupted the Toreros’ offense with multiple steals and blocked shots.
Lawson continued the momentum, hitting a clutch stepback jumper at the buzzer to end the first quarter. She maintained her hot shooting in the second, connecting on a key 3-pointer that gave LMU a 26-23 advantage. Lawson’s ability to draw fouls and convert pull-up jumpers helped the Lions build a 31-29 halftime lead.
San Diego Takes Control in Pivotal Third Quarter
The third quarter proved to be the turning point. LMU briefly extended its lead to 47-42, but San Diego’s Kylie Ray responded with three consecutive baskets, giving the Toreros a one-point lead heading into the final period. This shift in momentum proved difficult for the Lions to overcome.
Toreros Pull Away in Fourth Quarter
San Diego carried its momentum into the fourth quarter, opening with back-to-back 3-pointers from Ray and Jayden Rhodes, establishing a 54-47 lead. Despite a valiant effort from LMU, the Lions were unable to erase the deficit. Allison Clarke contributed a 3-pointer to narrow the gap to 60-53, and Lawson followed with a three-point play, bringing the score to within four points with four minutes remaining. However, Ray sealed the victory for San Diego, converting 7-of-8 free throws in the final minute as LMU was forced to foul.
Hernandez and Lawson Lead LMU in Scoring
The loss was frustrating for LMU, who controlled the game’s tempo for significant stretches. Hernandez delivered a well-rounded performance, finishing with 17 points, 7 rebounds, 5 steals, and a blocked shot. Lawson stood out offensively, recording a double-double with 23 points and 10 rebounds, adding four steals to her impressive stat line.
LMU will aim to learn from this road loss and build upon the positives displayed in the first half as they return home to face the University of the Pacific.
