By: Diego Macaraeg (@DiegoMac_sports) – Spear Reporter | (Photo by Mohammad Najimi – Spear Photographer)
A sluggish start kept San Jose State women’s basketball (0-8, 0-0 MW) chasing all afternoon as California (7-3, 0-0 ACC) cruised to a 92-42 win on Saturday at the Haas Pavilion.
The Spartans posted their fewest points in a quarter this season (4) and their lowest first-half total (16).
Their first field goal didn’t come until five minutes into the game, and they shot 2/15 (13%) in the opening quarter.
Behind junior guard Lulu Twidale, who led all scorers with 20 points, Cal built a 45-16 halftime lead and continued to pull away by controlling every phase of play.
SJSU head coach Jonas Chatterton didn’t sugarcoat the loss.
“We didn’t come out ready to play,” Chatterton said.
Cal shot 47% from the field (34/72), while SJSU managed only 16/56 (29%).
The Bears also dominated the glass with a 55-30 rebounding advantage, using their size to limit second-chance opportunities for the Spartans.
Despite the offensive struggles, senior guard Katarina Anderson provided a bright spot off the bench, scoring 10 points on 4/7 shooting in 21 minutes.
Chatterton pointed to the team’s improved energy after halftime and highlighted Anderson’s effort.
“I am proud of the group in the second half, and I thought Kat Anderson had a fantastic game,” Chatterton said.
Still searching for their first win, the Spartans will need to address ball security, shot selection and rebounding as they continue nonconference play.
SJSU will play at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, at CSUN inside Premier America Credit Union Arena in Los Angeles.
