PALM DESERT, Calif. — The Arizona Wildcats dropped a hard-fought game to the California Golden Bears, 74-62, Wednesday morning at Acrisure Arena. Arizona played without starting post Breya Cunningham, who missed the game due to a family emergency but is expected to return for Monday's game.

Sophomore Sahnya Jah made her first career start, contributing 13 points, five rebounds, and four steals. Jada Williams led Arizona with 18 points on 8-of-17 shooting, while Skylar Jones added 12 points and Paulina Paris chipped in nine points, two assists, and two steals.

Arizona started strong, taking a 21-17 lead after the first quarter while shooting 52.9% from the field. The Wildcats forced nine turnovers in the quarter and converted them into nine points. However, Cal outscored Arizona  in the second quarter to take a 37-31 halftime lead.

The Wildcats cut the deficit to one point midway through the third quarter with a 9-0 run, highlighted by a three-pointer from Paris and a layup by Williams. Despite shooting 54.5% in the quarter, Arizona couldn't keep pace with Cal's interior presence.

The Golden Bears were led by Ugonne Onyiah, who posted a game-high 25 points and 13 rebounds, shooting 11-of-14 from the field. 

Arizona forced 21 turnovers, scoring 25 points off Cal miscues,and shot 40.0% for the game.

The Wildcats (6-3) will return home to host Seattle for their next game on Monday at 6. p.m. MST.