CARSON, Calif. – The No. 1 seed Cal State Dominguez Hills women's basketball team is headed to the Elite Eight after a commanding 70-47 victory over No. 6 seed Central Washington in the NCAA West Regional Final. The Toros were dominant on both ends of the floor, controlling the game from start to finish to claim their second regional title in the past three seasons. With the win, CSUDH improves to 34-1 overall, continuing its historic season that includes the CCAA regular season and tournament championships.
The Toros wasted no time setting the tone, jumping out to a 20-8 lead in the opening frame. Senior Asia Jordan powered the offense with strong play in the paint, while Nala Williams and Cristina Jones each contributed key defensive plays to stifle the Wildcats' attack.
Dominguez Hills continued to impose its will, outscoring Central Washington 26-12 in the second quarter to take a 48-20 halftime lead. The Toros' defense held the Wildcats to just 29.3% shooting for the game, while their transition offense capitalized on turnovers, leading to fast-break buckets. Jordan dominated on the boards, while Williams knocked down two three-pointers to help the Toros build their lead.
Despite a scoring slowdown in the third, CSUDH maintained its defensive pressure, forcing Central Washington into rushed shots and turnovers. Jones continued her impressive play, attacking the glass and converting second-chance points. The Toros remained in control with a 62-30 lead heading into the final frame.
With the game well in hand, the Toros kept their focus and closed out the game strong. Central Washington put together a small run late, but the lead was too much to overcome. Jordan added a few more buckets to solidify her MVP performance, and Dominguez Hills celebrated as the clock hit zero, officially punching their ticket to the Elite Eight.
Toros Stat Leaders
- Asia Jordan – 17 PTS, 4 REB, 1 BLK (West Regional Tournament MVP)
- Nala Williams – 19 PTS, 6 REB, 6 AST, 6 STL (West Regional All-Tournament Team)
- Cristina Jones – 9 PTS, 11 REB, 3 AST, 2 STL (West Regional All-Tournament Team)
- Teagan Thurman – 7 PTS, 3 REB, 1 BLK
- Malia Goldsmith – 8 PTS, 1 REB, 1 STL
The Toros continue their incredible run, securing the CCAA regular season title, CCAA tournament title, and now the NCAA West Regional championship. With 34 wins, they solidify themselves as one of the most dominant teams in program history.
Cal State Dominguez Hills advances to the NCAA Elite Eight in Pittsburg where they will face the nation's best teams on Monday, March 25.