Basketball Recap: Asha Highsmith's Big Game Can't Quite Lead University over Laguna Beach

University's game on Friday was all tied up 14-14 at the half, but sadly for them it didn't stay that way. They lost 49-26 to the Laguna Beach Breakers. The loss continues a trend for the Trojans in their matchups with the Breakers: they've now lost three in a row.

University's defeat came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Asha Highsmith, who posted eight points and five rebounds. Julia Holmes was another key player, putting up three points and six boards.

Trojans

Previous 3 Games

01/24/25 vs Laguna Beach	26-49
01/18/25 @ Marina	26-55
01/17/25 @ Irvine	35-61

Even though they lost, University smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 11 offensive rebounds. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least eight offensive boards in ten consecutive contests.

Leading Laguna Beach to victory were Fiona McCormick and Kate Cheng. McCormick dropped a double-double on 21 points and 17 rebounds, while Cheng earned 20 points. The matchup was McCormick's fifth in a row with at least ten points.

University's loss dropped their record down to 6-17. As for Laguna Beach, they have been performing well recently as they've won eight of their last ten games, which provided a nice bump to their 17-8 record this season.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. University will square off against Northwood at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. University is facing Northwood at the right time seeing as Northwood is stuck on a six-game losing streak. As for Laguna Beach, they will challenge Capistrano Valley Christian at 5:00 p.m. on Monday. Each of these teams will be fighting to keep a win streak alive as Laguna Beach comes in on four and Capistrano Valley Christian on three.