Despite an impressive career-high performance from UCSB Center Clair Watkins, the Gauchos fell to Washington State 81-55 on Thursday at the Thunderdome.
The Gauchos were able to keep a 7-point deficit at the half but were unable to hang with the Cougars in the second half.
Watkins finished with 18 points and eight rebounds and forward Chaya Durr was not far behind, recording 10 points and snatching away five steals in her first start for UCSB. Guard Makala Roper also reeled in seven rebound and dished out three assists.
“Our team got better tonight,” said coach Carlene Mitchell. “I’m not happy and never will be after a loss. I hate to lose, but our team got better tonight. The effort has been there for the team, it’s now just putting it all together.”
UCSB now falls to 0-7 and Washington State improves to 6-2. The Gauchos will hit the road on Saturday in search of their first win against the San Diego State Aztecs.
