Aztecs Struggle in Heavy Loss to Santa Clara, Shooting Woes Persist

The San Diego State University women’s basketball team faced a challenging defeat on November 19, 2025, losing to Santa Clara 72-47 at Viejas Arena. The Aztecs’ performance was marked by a dismal shooting display, particularly from beyond the arc, where they managed to convert only one of 29 attempts.

Throughout the game, the Aztecs struggled defensively, allowing Santa Clara to dominate the first half. By halftime, San Diego State trailed significantly, 45-17. The Broncos outperformed the Aztecs in rebounding as well, securing 56 boards compared to San Diego State’s 36.

San Diego State’s head coach, Stacie Terry-Hutson, acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, stating, “I don’t think we gave ourselves much of a chance playing the type of defense that we did in the first half.” She noted improvements in the second half, yet emphasized that the situation had already become dire by then.

The first quarter ended with Santa Clara leading 17-6, as San Diego State failed to make any 3-point shots, going 0-for-10. The second quarter only exacerbated the Aztecs’ woes, as Santa Clara capitalized on their opportunities, launching a 28-11 run and finishing the first half with more successful 3-point shots than San Diego State had total baskets.

A notable aspect of the game was the contrasting shooting performance. Santa Clara recorded an impressive 11-for-25 from 3-point range, while San Diego State’s shooting struggles left them without a significant scoring threat. Coach Terry-Hutson remarked, “They shot the ball really well. But our transition defense was nonexistent in the second quarter.”

Despite the disappointing outcome, Nat Martinez, one of San Diego State’s leading scorers with 12 points, remained optimistic about the team’s approach. “We had good shots,” she said. “They just weren’t falling today. We’re not going to stop shooting.”

The Aztecs are set to face another challenge shortly, traveling to the Bahamas for a game against Maryland Eastern Shore on Saturday. The team will need to regroup quickly and find ways to improve their shooting and defensive strategies to avoid similar outcomes in future contests.

With the season still young, the Aztecs will be looking to learn from this experience and enhance their performance as they continue through the schedule. Coach Terry-Hutson expressed the need for the team to find a better balance between practice and rest, acknowledging that fatigue may have contributed to their lackluster performance.

In summary, the Aztecs’ struggles against Santa Clara highlighted areas needing improvement as they advance in the season. The upcoming game will be crucial for regaining momentum and restoring confidence in their abilities on the court.