ATHERTON, Calif. – Another strong defensive outing boosted the University of Puget Sound women's basketball team to a 54-43 victory over UC Santa Cruz on Tuesday. The Loggers (9-1) held the Banana Slugs to 12.9 percent shooting in the first half and 23.8 percent in the game to pace the victory.

The Loggers limited the Banana Slugs to 4-of-31 shooting in the first half to take a 29-11 lead at the half and hold on for a 54-43 victory. The Loggers shot just 24.6 percent in the game.

Kelsey McKinnis led the Loggers offensively with 18 points. Lindsay Layland was again just shy of a double-double with 10 points and eight rebounds. As a team, the Loggers outrebounded the Banana Slugs 63-46.

Taylor Willis led the Banana Slugs with 20 points while Zakiya Sharpe had eight rebounds.

Despite shooting under 13 percent in the first half, the Banana Slugs mounted a bit of a comeback with 34.4 percent shooting in the second half. The Loggers shot just 21.9 percent in the second half but found enough offense to hold on for the victory.

The Loggers extended their winning streak to nine games going into the Christmas break. They will return home on Dec. 30 for a nationally-ranked matchup against UW – Steven's Point.