The University of Hawaii women's basketball team could not overcome a dismal first half in a 55-40 loss to New Mexico State in the quarterfinals of the Western Athletic Conference Tournament today at Las Cruces, N.M.

The Rainbow Wahine finished their season with a 12-18 record.

The host Aggies are 21-9, and advanced to Friday's semifinals.

Tanya Smith completed her Hawaii career with her 20th double-double of the season, recording 11 points and 11 rebounds. Tara Hittle also scored 11 for the 'Bows.

But it was hardly enough as the 'Bows shot 25.9 percent from the field, including 14.3 percent (2 of 14) from 3-point range.

Hawaii trailed for most of the game, and never threatened the New Mexico State lead in the second half.

The 'Bows opened the game by missing 19 of their first 21 shot attempts, including three air balls.

Despite that horrid start, Hawaii was behind just 9-6 with 10 minutes remaining in the first half.

But the shooting woes continued for the 'Bows, and New Mexico State eventually took a 23-14 lead at intermission. Two free throws by Tara Hittle with 18.7 seconds remaining in the half prevented Hawaii from tying a WAC Tournament record for fewest points in a half.

The 'Bows finished the first half 5 of 29 from the field for a .172 percentage.

The Aggies increased the lead to 30-18 with 15:23 remaining in the second half.

Hawaii got as close as seven, but the Aggies pulled away again in the closing minutes.

Madison Spence led New Mexico State with 20 points.