OAKLAND, California – The Vulcans overcame a deep early hole to post their fifth consecutive victory as Hawai'i Hilo Women's Basketball fired past Academy of Art, 64-50, Saturday afternoon in Pacific West Conference play at Laney College Gymnasium.

Hawai'i Hilo started the game with a 16-3 deficit through the first eight minutes of play but quickly flipped the script and minimized turnovers for a 14-2 run of its own. The Vulcans also closed out the first half with a 12-2 scoring streak to jump ahead for a 32-23 lead at the break.

The Urban Knights managed to stay within striking distance throughout most of the second half, but the Vulcans closed out the final five minutes of play with a 13-2 run to seal up the victory.

Kamalu Kamakawiwoole nabbed a consecutive double-double for the seventh of her career on 16 points and 11 rebounds along with two steals and a season-high four blocks.

Kaile Cruz also tallied 16 points.

-The two teams previously met in Hilo in mid-January with the Vulcans victorious, 68-53.

UP NEXT

Hawai'i Hilo moved to an 11-11 overall record (8-8 PacWest) while Academy of Art moved to 3-13 in conference play (4-18 overall).

The Vulcans continue on the road against Dominican (Feb. 19), Fresno Pacific (Feb. 22) and Westmont (Feb. 24) before returning for one last home contest against HPU on March 2 for Senior Night.

PATH TO PACWEST CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

The top six teams at the end of the regular season will make it to San Diego for the 2023-24 PacWest Conference Tournament set for March 7-9 at Point Loma's Golden Gymnasium.

Hawai'i Hilo continues to close the gap, sitting on the bubble at No. 7 with Biola (9-8) and Concordia University Irvine (9-8) tied ahead at No. 5.

Azusa Pacific remains at the top with an unbeaten record.