Brianna Campbell / The Collegian

The defending WAC champions opened WAC conference play with a victory Wednesday night.

Fresno State’s women’s basketball team proved they are ready to take the title once again after a 83-42 victory against Hawaii.

Fresno faced Hawaii three times last season, winning by at least 15 points each game. The Bulldogs have won 13 of the last 14 games against Hawaii. The last loss came on Feb. 15, 2007.

The Bulldogs dominated the game with its tough full-court press, forcing 17 turnovers in the first half and a total of 29 turnovers for the game.

At the end of the first half the Bulldogs were ahead 19-42 with a 33-10 run. Head coach Adrian Wiggins said he was pleased with his team’s effort.

“Great pressure on the ball tonight,” Wiggins said.

Brianna Campbell / The Collegian

Jaleessa Ross led the team with 18 points, four assists and four steals. Twelve of Ross’ points were from the 3-point line.

Ross now has 233 3-pointers, putting her closer to the Bulldog record of 273 set by Lindsay Logan’s.

Hayley Munro followed Ross with 12 points off the bench, and starting guard Marnique Arnold contributed with 9 points.

The Bulldogs were 14-30 from the 3-point line, proving that they are strong on the outside as well as down low.

Ross said the team’s patience on offense made it possible for them to take their time and focus on all their shots as a team.

The Bulldogs will hit the road for Idaho Saturday at 3 p.m. to take on the Vandals.

After losing to the Vandals twice last season the Bulldogs are ready to continue the aggressive tempo they have started with their victory over Hawaii.

In preparation for the game Wiggins said that he was anxious to play them again.

“We must not lose tempo of the game, be aggressive and attack.”