HILO, Hawaii. – The William Carey Women's Basketball team held off a late rally to defeat Arizona Christian University 77-68, Saturday afternoon in the Big Island Classic.

The Lady Crusaders opened the game with seven straight points and led by as many 10 before taking a 26-22 lead into the second quarter.  The hot shooting continued by WCU in the second quarter, as Carey stretched their lead to as many 10 on multiple occasions but the Firestorm managed to close the deficit to 43-39 at the half.

Carey came out of the break, wasting no time building a 59-47 lead, as the defense held ACU to just eight points in the quarter.  Things were a bit different in fourth, as the Firestorm outscored WCU 16-4 over the first five minutes to tie things at 63 all.  However, Lauren Rowley nailed three straight three pointers to put Carey ahead for good.

Rowley finished with a season high 28 points while Kolten Blakeney added 14 points and 11 rebounds for the double double.  Gabrielle Gallup finished with 12 point with McKinley Seal adding 10 assist.

WCU is back in tomorrow as they take on Valley City State University. Tip-off is scheduled for 1:00 pm.