For the first time this season, Long Beach State’s women’s basketball team has won back-to-back games.
The 49ers defeated Texas-Pan American, 78-58, in non-conference action Saturday night at the Walter Pyramid.
After playing to 35-35 tie in the first half, LBSU (7-17) stifled the Broncs into 37.5 percent shooting (9-of-24) after intermission.
The 49ers shot 54.4 percent (31-of-57) from floor in the contest and were led by Whitney Fields and Lauren Sims. Fields scored 23 points on 11-of-19 shooting to go with nine rebounds. Sims added 22 points on an efficient 7-of-11 from the field, including 3-of-5 from 3-point range.
UTPA (12-12) put two players in double figures, led by Epiphany Smith’s 15 points. Rachel Hester chipped in 13 for the Broncs.
LBSU led by as many as 20 points.
The 49ers will host UC Riverside on Friday at the Walter Pyramid. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.