In another thrilling showdown, CSUN once again continue their dominance in the Big West Conference, edging out Long Beach State in a nail-biting 81-80 victory. With this win, the Matadors improve to 17-7 overall and 9-4 in conference play, securing their position as one of the top teams in the league.
The intensity was palpable from the opening tip-off, as CSUN struck first with a 4-0 lead. However, Long Beach wasted no time responding, as they would answer with 5 in a row, taking an early lead. Both teams showcased relentless offensive and defensive efforts, trading baskets throughout the first half. The Matadors relied on Keonte Adams’ sharpshooting, as he drilled back-to-back three-pointers to help CSUN regain control. However, the Beach responded with a 9-0 run, reclaiming the lead behind a strong effort from Christian Richardson. They would go into halftime with a close game of 43-41 with CSUN having the lead.
Coming out of the break, CSUN capitalized on defensive stops, forcing key turnovers and extending their lead to 47-41 within the first minute. But Long Beach State refused to go down easily, answering with a quick five-point surge. CSUN’s star performer, Jones, made his presence felt with two clutch baskets and a steal, igniting a 10-0 run that gave the Matadors their largest lead of the night at 57-46. Long Beach State would continue to make their efforts despite of the disadvantage. Despite going scoreless in the first half, TJ Wainwright came alive in the second half to help the Beach reduce the deficit to single figures. Adams and Jones scored crucial baskets for CSUN in response, but Long Beach State remained within striking distance.
CSUN led by six points with less than a minute remaining, but Wainwright made a long three to cut the game to one possession. Long Beach State had one last chance to steal the victory after a costly Matadors error, but CSUN’s defensive pressure forced a difficult mid-range attempt from Devin Askew, which fell short. However, the drama wasn’t over. A technical foul was called on CSUN’s bench as the game ended, allowing Askew to sink two free throws, bringing the final score to 81-80.
