Box Score

HOUSTON—The University of Hawaii Wahine basketball team found the going rough in its second road game of the season, falling to Rice, 57-43, in defensive battle Thursday at Autry Court. The Wahine dropped to 10-4 overall and 3-2 in the WAC.

The 43 points was the lowest output by the Wahine since February 17, 2000 when UH managed just 40 points in a loss at Tulsa. Hawaii struggled offensively, hitting just 10 of its 50 shots and more than half of the teams points came from the free throw line.

The Wahine made just one of its first 10 shots in an omen of things to come. UH however hung in with free throws, converting 13-of-19 in the first half. The Wahine trailed by as many as 13 in the first frame but were able to cut the deficit to 32-23 by intermission.

UH defense stepped up a notch in the second forcing the Lady Owls to just 25 percent shooting. But UH's offense remained stagnant shooting a frigid 18 percent and the Lady Owl lead wouldn't get below eight points the rest of the way.

The Wahine held a 23-11 advantage at the line and a 54-44 edge on the boards, yet couldn't overcome their poor shooting, including 0-6 from behind the arc. UH was also forced into a season-high 21 turnovers.

Natasja Allen led the Wahine with 10 points, while Lindey Maynard was the only other player in double digits, leading Rice with 13.

The Wahine next travel to Tulsa. The Golden Hurricane had its six game win streak snapped with a 75-73 home loss to San Jose State on Thursday. The Wahine square off with Tulsa (10-6, 5-1) on Saturday at 2 p.m. CST.