They were also well prepared as both assistant coaches were in attendance scouting at our Azusa last Saturday. CSUSB threw lots of different looks at us in the early stages and made it clear from the onset that they were going to grind out the entire 30 second shot clock on every possession making us work hard defensively and limiting our opportunities to run. CSUSB went with a smaller and quicker line-up that moved the ball well and stretched us out defensively. Cal were very patient and took good care of the ball with only 3 turnovers in the first half. They also made some strongly contested jump shots and 3 point shots, at 38%, over some solid defence from the AIS.

The AIS’s offensive struggle continued in the early stages of the game with early turnovers, missed layups and free throw attempts. The AIS was looking very tentative offensively and needed to lift the energy. However, they battled hard defensively and on the boards and were able to stay in touch, going into the half down 28-22.

The AIS came out of the half determined to change the tempo of the game and set the tone defensively from the first possession by increasing the pressure up the floor, on the ball, and in the paint. This immediately changed the tempo of the game in the AIS’s favour and gave the AIS more confidence at the offensive end. The tide changed and with some very spirited and assertive individual and collective performances the AIS clawed their way back into the game. The AIS came up with repeated stops and CSUSB became more and more uncomfortable with the pace of the game and made some uncharacteristic errors and took some poor shots. The AIS was again able to convert their tireless efforts on the defensive side of the ball forcing CSUSB to shoot a poor 24%FG in the second half. The AIS was able to capitalize on their defensive presence and convert at 48% in the second half predominantly in transition and with rip drives, open jump shots and post feeds.

Stephanie Collins’ inside presence and shot changing/blocking ability off the bench in the second half inspired her teammates. Ally Wilson and Lou Brown were equally up to the challenge with their ability to attack at the rim and finish under pressure. All three were outstanding on the boards, particularly down the stretch. Tessa Lavey was another strong contributor with 6 assists and 7 rebounds.

In summary, the AIS had a strong defensive performance keeping CSUSB to 49 points, 31% FG, and limiting them to only 4 FT attempts. The AIS again dominated the boards, 48-30. It was a spirited comeback in the second half from the AIS that showed courage, determination and progress to earn a well deserved win in the final stages of the game.

Today the AIS will travel into North West Los Angeles, the City of Thousand Oaks, to compete against DIII Representative, California Lutheran University, for the final game of the 2012 AIS - USA Tour. The AIS will need to build on a quality second half performance yesterday in the hopes of securing a final victory over Cal Lutheran and strong 9-1 record for the tour.

Top Performers: