BERKELEY, Calif. (Interstat) — In a non-conference women’s basketball matchup Sunday, the California Golden Bears used a dominant second-quarter surge to pull away from the visiting Harvard Crimson, securing a 76-65 victory at Haas Pavilion.

A crowd of 1,019 watched as the Golden Bears improved their season record to 4-1, while Harvard fell to 2-3.

The game was a tale of two halves, with Harvard holding a narrow 35-37 lead at halftime after a tightly contested first quarter. The Crimson started strong, with Abigail Wright and Karlee White connecting on early layups to set the tone. California responded through the interior presence of Sakima Walker and the outside shooting of Lulu Twidale, but Harvard’s early efficiency from the field allowed them to take an 18-15 lead after the opening period.

The second quarter, however, proved to be the turning point. California’s offense ignited, outscoring Harvard 22-17 in the frame. The Golden Bears’ run was fueled by a balanced attack. Twidale facilitated the offense with precision, while a burst off the bench from Naya Ojukwu provided a critical spark. Ojukwu scored 11 of her 15 points in the second quarter alone, exploiting the Harvard defense with a series of effective cuts and finishes at the rim. Her energy, combined with Twidale’s playmaking, allowed California to build a lead they would not relinquish.

Harvard’s offense, which had looked fluid in the first quarter, began to stall against a tightening California defense. The Crimson struggled to find consistent scoring outside of their primary options, allowing the Golden Bears to take a 37-35 advantage into the locker room.

After halftime, California continued to apply pressure, winning the third quarter 20-15 to extend their lead. The Golden Bears’ defense intensified, forcing several key Harvard turnovers and converting them into points on the other end. Walker’s rim protection became a significant factor, as she recorded multiple blocks that disrupted Harvard’s driving lanes and shot attempts.

The fourth quarter saw Harvard attempt to mount a comeback, matching California’s 19 points in the period, but they could never close the gap to a single possession. Every time the Crimson threatened, California had an answer, often from Twidale or a timely basket from Taylor Barnes to stem the momentum.

Abigail Wright led all scorers with a formidable 23-point performance for Harvard, demonstrating a versatile inside game. She was supported by Karlee White, who added 18 points and was a constant presence on both ends of the floor, and Saniyah Glenn, who contributed 13 points and provided stout defense with two blocks.

For California, the victory was a product of a collective effort. Lulu Twidale spearheaded the offense with 17 points and a team-high four assists, controlling the tempo and making crucial shots. Sakima Walker was a force in the paint, finishing with 15 points and three blocks, while Naya Ojukwu’s 15-point outburst off the bench provided the pivotal second-quarter surge. The Golden Bears’ backcourt was expertly managed by Aliyahna Morris, who dished out five assists and helped orchestrate the offensive sets that broke the game open.

The Golden Bears will look to continue their winning ways when they host Saint Mary’s on Thursday. Harvard, meanwhile, will aim to return to the win column quickly as they travel to face Boston College on Wednesday.