Despite one of their most spirited and intense efforts of the season, the University of Hawaii women's basketball team watched helplessly last night as their 11-point second half lead disappeared in the final amid a whirlwind of rushed plays and missed connections that ultimately resulted in a heartbreaking 74-69 loss to Nevada at the Stan Sheriff Center tonight.

Tanya Smith scored 15 points, snared a game high 20 rebounds, including 11 on the offensive end, and blocked four shots. Saundra Cariaga contributed 16 points and Tara Hittle added nine points and 14 rebounds (seven offensive).

Mikail Price led the Wolf Pack with 17 points. Dellena Criner finished with 16, including 12 in the second half.

Reach Michael Tsai at mtsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.