The Long Beach State women’s basketball team finished the Gene Hackerman Invitational with a 78-61 loss to host Rice University at Tudor Fieldhouse on Saturday.
The 49ers (1-8) surrendered a career-high 35 points to Owls freshman Jessica Kuster, who also earned her first career double-double in the process with 10 rebounds. Kuster, a forward, went 13-of-16 from the field and 7-of-9 from the free-throw line in 31 minutes off the bench for Rice.
Kuster also set the Rice freshman scoring record for a single game with her 35-point effort.
LBSU center Janae Coffee, who was one of four ‘Niners to score in double figures, had a double-double of her own with 13 points and 10 rebounds. The freshman’s feat was not enough, however, as the Owls (5-4) used an 11-0 run in the first half to gain an advantage they would never give back.
After both teams traded baskets in the game’s opening 10 minutes, Rice used its big run to take a 30-20 lead. The 49ers had led 20-19 at the 10:55 mark of the first half just before the Owls went on their hot streak.
The Beach once again broke the 20-turnover mark as it finished the contest with 21 giveaways.
Senior Courtney Jacob led LBSU with 14 points on 6-of-12 shooting. Tipesa Moorer and freshman Brandi Henton added 12 points apiece for the 49ers.
The ‘Niners return home after playing six games on the road Wednesday when they host the University of San Diego at 7 p.m. at the Walter Pyramid.
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