written by Jalen Kang

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – Cal Lutheran women's basketball took on No. 18 Whitman in its first game of the UCSC Thanksgiving Classic, where the Regals were bested by the undefeated Blues 73-50 on Saturday afternoon. 

HOW IT HAPPENED
The Regals (2-1) struggled offensively early, scoring just eight points in each of the first two quarters. The Blues (7-0) capitalized on efficient 46.8% shooting from the field to take a commanding 39-16 lead at halftime. 

The Regals found a rhythm in the second half, matching Whitman's point totals in the third and fourth quarters. They shot 50% (7-14) in the third quarter and 44.8% (13-29) across the second half, but the Blues' consistent offense proved to be too much. 

THE NUMBERS
- Alline Ballard: 12 points, 7 rebounds, 1 block
- Janna Holley: 8 points, 3 blocks, 1 steal

UP NEXT
The Regals will play one more game at the UCSC Thanksgiving Classic as they face host UC Santa Cruz for the second time this season, this time on the Banana Slugs' home court.