SAN MARCOS, Calif. – The No. 1 seeded Cal State Dominguez Hills women's basketball team took another step toward a CCAA Tournament title, defeating No. 5 Sonoma State 56-45 in the semifinals on Friday night at The Sports Center. With the win, the Toros improve to 30-1 overall and 21-1 in CCAA play, advancing to the CCAA Tournament Championship game for a chance to complete their dominant season with both the regular-season and tournament crowns.
The game opened with a defensive battle, as both teams struggled to find an offensive rhythm. The Toros leaned on their aggressive defense to force turnovers, creating fast-break opportunities. Cristina Jones got the Toros on the board early, attacking the glass and finishing inside. Kya Pearson knocked down a key three-pointer to give Dominguez Hills momentum. At the end of the first quarter, the Toros held a slim 14-12 advantage.
Both teams continued to battle defensively in the second quarter, with neither squad able to create significant separation. Asia Jordan found success inside, grabbing offensive rebounds and converting second-chance points. Joe'l Benoit added a three-pointer to stretch the lead, but the Toros struggled to convert at the free-throw line, finishing the half 0-for-4. Despite the offensive struggles, Dominguez Hills held firm on defense, taking a 25-22 lead into halftime.
The Toros' defense took over in the third quarter, holding Sonoma State to just seven points in the period. Nala Williams and Jordan turned up the pressure, forcing turnovers and turning defense into offense. Jones continued to be a force on the boards, giving the Toros multiple second-chance opportunities. Dominguez Hills entered the fourth quarter with a 36-29 lead.
With the championship game on the line, the Toros put the game away in the final period. Devon Lewis and Benoit scored key baskets to push the lead to double digits, while Jordan and Jones controlled the paint on both ends. Sonoma State attempted to rally, but the Toros closed the game out at the free-throw line, securing a 56-45 victory.
Toros Stat Leaders
Before the game, the Toros were recognized for their stellar season with five players earning All-CCAA honors:
 Nala Williams – First Team, CCAA Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year
Asia Jordan – First Team
Teagan Thurman – Second Team
Kya Pearson – Honorable Mention
Cristina Jones – Honorable Mention, CCAA Freshman of the Year
Additionally, Head Coach John Bonner was named CCAA Coach of the Year for leading the Toros to another dominant season.
With the victory, the Toros advance to the CCAA Championship Game, where they will face No. 2 seeded Cal Poly Pomona on Saturday, March 8, at 8 p.m. as they look to complete the regular-season and tournament title sweep.
