Box Score

The University of Hawai'i Wahine basketball team built an early lead and held on to beat Washington State, 65-50, on the first day of the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort Classic Saturday at the Stan Sheriff Center. The Wahine have now won 13 straight season-openers.

Hawai'i came out strong and dominated the Cougars in the first half, taking a 40-22 lead at the break. The Wahine extended the lead to 25 points early in the second half. Washington State, did not give up and came within nine points with 1:36 remaining, however, the deficit was too great to overcome.

The Cougars could not find an answer to junior center Christen Roper who simply dominated the game. Roper had 13 of her game-high 18 points by halftime, most of her points from point-blank range. She also grabbed14 rebounds and set a new career-high and tied a Wahine school record with seven blocked shots.

Senior point guard Janka Gabrielova recorded 15 points, five rebounds and five assists, while junior power forward Natasja Allen had 14 points and six rebounds.

Brittany Hawks was the lone Cougar (0-1) to score in double figures, pouring in 18 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.

Hawaii will face Portland State in the championship of the Marriott Resort Classic Sunday at 1 p.m. Portland State beat Texas A&M, 80-78, in double overtime on a last second 3-point shot by Heidi Stuart.