Hawaii women drop 85-79 to USF despite Tamilo's 27-point, 19-rebound effort
The Rainbow Wahine squandered a 12-point lead in the fourth quarter to lose their season opener in overtime.
By Katherine Brooks ·
Hawaii women’s basketball lost its season opener on Nov. 5 to San Francisco, 85-79, after surrendering a 63-51 lead late in regulation. The defeat occurred at War Memorial at The Sobrato Center in San Francisco, California.
The Rainbow Wahine started the game with a 20-0 deficit in the first quarter. They trimmed the gap to take a 33-32 lead at halftime. Hawaii built a 12-point advantage with under five minutes left in the fourth quarter. USF answered with a 16-4 run to force overtime. The Dons controlled the extra period to secure the win.
Junior Ritorya Tamilo recorded career highs with 27 points, 19 rebounds, and six blocks. Bailey Flavell contributed 18 points, four assists, and three rebounds. Bench player Tehayna Bond added 11 points, three assists, and two steals.
USF’s Maria Burliga and Aina Cargol each scored 17 points. The Dons finished the game with a 1-0 record. Their rebounding dominance was decisive, as they outboarded Hawaii 56-46 and collected 25 offensive rebounds.
Hawaii returns home for the Bank of Hawaii Classic. The team opens that tournament against Saint Mary’s next Friday at 11 a.m.
