Box Score HONOLULU, HI – The Swords fell to the 'Lopes of GCU this evening 68-50 in McCabe Gym.
Grand Canyon, second in the PacWest Conference heading into the contest at 14-2 overall and 6-2 in league play, led early on. The 'Lopes enjoyed a 7-0 lead just over four minutes in. The Swords fell behind 28-9 with just under seven minutes remaining in the first half before Chaminade came roaring back. An 11-0 CUH run, culminating with a jumper by sophomore
Jordan Ahakuelo (Pearl City, Pearl City) made the score 28-20 with 3:47 left in the half. The Antelopes lead by eleven points, 36-25 at the break. Ahakuelo led the Swords with 10 points in the half. Forward
Markeshia Manning (Kapolei, HI/Pearl City) was also instrumental in keeping the Swords within striking distance, adding 8 points in the first twenty minutes.
CUH shot 36% from the floor in the first half, while GCU shot 57% from the field.
The contest was back and forth in the opening minutes of the second half, before GCU slowly pulled away. A layup by GCU's Angelina Dennison made the score 48-29 with just over 14 minutes remaining. The 'Lopes continued their run, leading 61-32 with just under 9 minutes remaining in the contest. Chaminade showed no quit, continuing to battle but it was not enough, falling by a score of 68-50.
The Silverswords shot 40% from the floor and Grand Canyon shot 50 % for the game. Ahakuelo finished with 15 points and 6 rebounds for CUH, while Manning added 11 points in defeat.
Grand Canyon was led by Maylinn Smith with 18 points. CUH did a tremendous job on the glass, out-rebounding GCU 28-24. Chaminade struggled protecting the basketball, committing 26 turnovers on the contest.
Chaminade is back at home for PacWest action on Feb. 1st against Dixie State. Tip is set for 5:00 PM HT in McCabe Gym.
The Swords are now 0-14, 0-8 PWC on the year, while Grand Canyon goes to 15-2, 7-2 PWC.
