The University of Hawai’i women’s basketball team endured a significant 85-46 defeat against No. 2 UCLA at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles. Upon taking an early lead at 3-2, the Rainbow Wahine were unable to maintain their advantage as the Bruins embarked on a 14-0 run, securing their fifth consecutive victory against UH. As a result, the Bruins maintain an impressive 9-1 overall record against UH, with a flawless 7-0 standing in Westwood.
This season, UH has faced formidable opponents from the nationally ranked Pac-12, including No. 9 Stanford, No. 23 Washington, and the recent formidable match against No. 2 UCLA, accounting for half of their total losses.
During the game, UCLA guard Charisma Osborne led her team with 17 points, supported by four teammates who also achieved double figures. Additionally, 6-foot-7 sophomore center Lauren Betts, the national leader in field-goal percentage, contributed 16 points and maintained a remarkable 8-for-10 shooting record. The Bruins asserted their dominance inside the paint, securing a substantial 44-8 advantage in points.
Despite the defeat, UH guard Olivia Davies achieved 11 points, all of which were scored in the fourth quarter. Furthermore, junior guard/forward MeiLani McBee closely followed with nine points, and also ascended to sixth place on UH’s career chart with 118 3-pointers.
Throughout the game, UH showcased strength in their 3-point shooting, with eight of their 15 field goals originating from beyond the arc. Notably, players such as Lily Wahinekapu, who delivered two 3-pointers, and Daejah Phillips, who not only added eight points but also secured a team-high eight rebounds, demonstrated standout performances.
Following a significant hiatus from the game, the Rainbow Wahine returned to action subsequent to their victory over San Jose State on Dec. 3. Despite initially obtaining a lead in Thursday’s game, UH faltered against UCLA’s relentless offensive endeavors, particularly in the paint.
As the team progresses, they are scheduled to conclude 2023 and commence the Big West schedule on Dec. 30 at Cal State Fullerton, followed by a return to SimpliFi Arena at Stan Sheriff Center on Jan. 4 against CSU Bakersfield. Despite the formidable loss to UCLA, the Rainbow Wahine remain resolute in their determination to rebound as they confront their opponents head-on.