California's women's basketball team overcame an eight-point deficit in the fourth quarter to secure a 72-68 victory against Santa Clara in the first round of the NCAA Women's Basketball Invitation Tournament. Key performances from Lulu Twidale, who scored 27 points and had 11 rebounds, and Sakima Walker, who contributed 19 points, propelled the Golden Bears to their sixth consecutive win over the Broncos. The win also marks California's advance to the second round of the tournament, achieving a second straight 20-win season.

By the Numbers
  • Lulu Twidale scored 27 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, marking her second career double-double.
  • Sakima Walker added 19 points, including four straight field goals during the fourth quarter comeback.
State of Play
  • California rallied from being down by eight points with 8 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.
  • The team held Santa Clara to a critical scoreless stretch in the first quarter, maintaining momentum going into the second half.
What's Next

California will face No. 2 seed Kansas State in the second round of the WBIT on Sunday, aiming to extend their tournament run further.

Bottom Line

The Golden Bears' resilience in overcoming a fourth-quarter deficit illustrates their determination to continue their successful season and highlights the importance of teamwork in achieving victory.