SAN FRANCISCO – Though Menlo had the edge early on, Academy of Art women's basketball resiliently fought back by either tying or surpassing the Oaks in the three subsequent quarters including 27 points in the final frame that saw ART U repeatedly within striking distance on Saturday. In the end, however, the visitors eked out a 69-67 Pacific West Conference victory.

"We had a clear understanding of how Menlo wanted to score and our ability to make sure we could contest shots in places on the court that we wanted was our priority coming into the game," said Head Coach Jesse Clark. "This afternoon our offense really grew as the game went along as we understood the opponent's tactics."

Menlo began the contest up 11-0 but saw their advantage return to single digits when redshirt freshman guard Karereatua Williams nail a 3-pointer in the final two minutes of the opening quarter. After the Oaks built a 16-point lead midway through the second, the Urban Knights made their first move toward a comeback with junior guard Alba Rovira Ayuso scoring six points during a 7-0 run. As the sides traded scores with Rovira Ayuso heating up from long range, the difference at halftime was down to 34-23.

Revenga struck again just before what was a thrilling final minute of play as the Knights countered free throws with triples by both Williams and Rovira Ayuso each keeping it a one-possession game. Despite the furious comeback, the Oaks converted all six of their attempts at the foul line in the last 40 seconds to outlast Academy of Art 69-67.

"Proud of how the team implemented the adjustments in game," Clark said. "Recognizing our advantages is something I'm a most happy with and look forward to our team continuing to grow in."

The Urban Knights shift to 10-12 on the season and 3-11 in PacWest action after Rovira Ayuso's breakout career-high 25-point performance that included a 9-for-15 shooting effort from the field and five 3-pointers. Revenga supported with 13 points on efficient shooting as well (6-for-11 from the field) plus five assists while Fornells provided 11 points and three steals and Williams knocked down two triples en route to her 10 points.

"Today's game really showcased what this team is capable of when we play as one, with energy and focus," Rovira Ayuso said. "We kept believing in ourselves until the very end, battling for every possession and making smart decisions on offense. We know we need to work on executing our concepts earlier in the game. I'm excited for this upcoming week of practices, where we'll use this game as a valuable opportunity to grow and learn together."

For Menlo, now 13-9 overall and 9-6 versus conference opponents, Alberte Frisch turned in 21 points and the duo of Jesni Cooper plus Aliya Hunter had 11 apiece.

To finish its current three-game homestand, ART U will face Westmont for the first time this year at Laney College in Oakland on Saturday, Feb. 15 at 1 p.m.