LAS VEGAS — No. 11 seed San Diego secured a 66-62 victory over Saint Mary's in the first round of the Credit Union 1 West Coast Conference Women's Basketball Championship at Orleans Arena in Las Vegas. San Diego built a 13-point lead in the second quarter, boosted by eight three-pointers. The Gaels slugged their way back into the game with a back-and-forth second half battle that ultimately saw USD advance.

With the victory, the Toreros will play No. 7 seed San Francisco in the second round tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.

San Diego established an early advantage with a 23-13 edge at the end of the first quarter. San Diego held Saint Mary's to shoot just 35.7 percent in the first quarter, while also forcing multiple turnovers. Additionally, San Diego capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring seven points off offensive rebounds.

In the second quarter, the Gaels started chipping away at the lead and the Gaels took the lead in the third quarter with momentum on their side. Saint Mary's garnered 14 points in the paint in the third quarter. USD held a one-point lead at the end of the third. 

USD's Kylie Ray hit a 3-pointer with 9:35 remaining, which was quickly followed by Eva Ruse's layup to regain control. San Diego's defense contributed with two pivotal blocks, including one by Lilly Amor with 22 seconds left.

Hallie Rhodes paced the Toreros with 22 points along with nine rebounds. Ray scored 19 points, including three three-pointers, and secured a double-double with 10 rebounds. Amor notched four blocks. Jessica Ajayi made an impact with her defensive prowess, recording two steals and scoring six points. 

Edie Clarke led Saint Mary's with 17 points on 8-for-13 shooting and securing 11 rebounds. Malia Latu was the top scorer for the Gaels, tallying 19 points with five rebounds.