Maryknoll got off to a huge start against Hanalani, and the Spartans really needed it.
Maryknoll let a 21-point second-period lead dwindle to four with 1:27 remaining, but held on for the victory.
“We started getting a little happy. We lost focus and got comfortable,” said Maryknoll coach Steve Caley.
Crystie Wong scored 19 points and four teammates each added 10 for the Spartans, who scored the first 13 points of the game.
Maryknoll led by as much as 33-12 after Ciana Ochoco’s field goal with 4:18 left before halftime.
Maryknoll had eight steals in the first half with seven coming in the first period. Wong had four steals in the first period.
Hanalani got back into the game by handling Maryknoll’s 2-2-1 full-court press and getting the ball inside to Sarah Liva, who had seven points in the second period.
The Royals went on a 12-4 run over the final 3:08 of the first half, and scored the first four of the second to get within 39-30.
Hanlani got within 56-52 after Nicole Gonzalez’s free throw with 1:27 left, but the Spartans went 8 of 12 from the free-throw line to ice it.
“We lost momentum and once you lose it, it’s tough to get back,” Caley said.
Maia Laboy, Ochoco, Ashlee De Santos and Maegen Martin each scored 10 for Maryknoll.
Hanalani’s Liva had 20 points and 11 rebounds.
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