The Cal State Stanislaus women’s basketball team jumped out to an early 5-0  lead and were able to answer goal for goal through the first half of their California Collegiate Athletic Association opener against Cal State Monterey Bay Friday night. But the Otters opened the second half strong with a layup by junior guard Michelle Santizo, which led to back-to-back three-pointers to raise CSUMB’s lead to 51-36.  A lay-up by Santizo gave the Otters their largest lead of the game, 53-36. CSUMB went on to earn a 58-44 victory.
The Warriors were led by Katie Busi with a double-double, 17 points and 12 rebounds. Natalie Olveda added 12 points.
The Otters out-rebounded Stanislaus, 40-33 while recording a season-high eight three-pointers.
The Otters improve to 3-0 overall and 1-0 in CCAA play while the Warriors drop to 1-2, 0-1 in CCAA action.
Stanislaus is slated to play San Francisco State at 5:30 p.m. today at San Francisco before traveling to the Humboldt State Classic Dec. 11 and 12.