BAKERSFIELD, Calif.—Tyonna Outland (R-Sr., Compton, Calif., Lynwood HS) scored 28 points to lead Bakersfield past Air Force 96-56 in the season opening women's basketball game for both schools Friday night in the Icardo Center.

“The team played hard and we did a lot of great things out there today,” said Bakersfield head coach Greg McCall.

Outland was 10-of-17 from the floor to move past Kelley Tarver (1,481, 2005-10) into third in career scoring at Bakersfield. The 5-9 forward added seven rebounds, six assists, and four steals.  Brooklynn Hinkens (Sr., Lake Tapps, Wash., Auburn-Riverside HS) recorded a career high 21 points. Batabe Zempare (Jr., Accra, Ghana, Scottsdale Chapparal HS) had 10 points and nine rebounds. The 6-2 forward also added four steals. Erika Williams (R-So., Fresno, Calif., Diamond Ranch HS) also had 10 points.

Leading by 12 at halftime, Bakersfield held the Falcons to seven field goals in the second half (7-of-21). The Roadrunners outscored Air Force 51-25 in the closing frame. CSUB forced 30 turnovers which were turned into 39 points (CSUB also had 17 steals).  The 'Runners outrebounded Air Force 39-38, and held a 22-9 advantage in assists.

Air Force, which has lost 24 in a row dating back to last season, was led by Lindsey Lewis who scored 15 points. Jimi Blagowsky added 11.

“There are a lot of things you see as a coach that you want to clean up, things that you want to get better at,” McCall said. “Rebounding is one area that we still need to do a better job. We shot the ball well. We executed pretty well on offense. I'm very proud to get this first win. It's been a long journey waiting on this game. I know the girls were anxious about it too.”

Bakersfield begins a two-game road trip Monday at Arizona. Tip is set for 7 p.m. (MST). The Roadrunners return home Nov. 26 when CSUB hosts Fresno Pacific beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at vallitix.com.

~www.GoRunners.com~