SURPRISE, ARIZ. - The Spirit played tight with (5) Westmont, even holding a lead late in the first quarter. But a stretch of nearly nine minutes that extended between the first and second quarters dug OUAZ a deep hole that they could not get out of.

Westmont had three players score in double figures, and while the Spirit competed, it was not enough to keep pace in the fourth quarter as the Warriors took a 72-49 win from Faith Arena on Thursday night. The Spirit now start conference play with a loss for the second straight season.

Vanessa Barriga was OUAZ's best performer, as she scored 12 points on 62.5% shooting, and also grabbed six rebounds. She also played disciplined defense, as she did not pick up a foul in 22 minutes.

Despite giving up 14 second-chance points, the Spirit outrebounded the Warriors on the defensive glass 27-22. In total rebounds, Westmont held a slight advantage, 38-37.

The Spirit will have a day to recover, as they get back on the court Saturday for another top five matchup. They will host (3)The Master's at Faith Arena, and tipoff is scheduled for Noon MST.