OAKLAND, Calif. (Interstat) — The Merritt Thunderbirds used a dominant fourth quarter to defeat the Contra Costa Comets 73-59 in a California Community College women’s basketball game Friday.

Merritt, which led 36-32 at halftime, broke open a close contest by outscoring Contra Costa 25-12 in the final period. The Thunderbirds improved to 13-7 overall. The Comets fell to 0-1.

Gabbie Gerrodette led Contra Costa with 14 points and six rebounds. Kaylani Trout-Lacy added nine points and a game-high 11 rebounds. Snowe Deleon scored 13 points for the Comets.