NORTHRIDGE, Calif. - The UC Santa Barbara Men's Basketball team (19-11, 11-8 Big West) fell on the road to CSUN Saturday night. What started out as a tightly contested contest turned after the Matadors went on an 18-5 run about mid way in the second half.

HOW IT HAPPENED
In the first half, UC Santa Barbara scored 46 points, highlighted by strong performances from Jason Fontenet II and Cole Anderson. Fontenet II made multiple 3-pointers early on, including a fastbreak three at 17:36, contributing significantly to the team's offensive efforts. Colin Smith hit a 3-pointer just before the buzzer to close the half. Despite CSUN's 58 points, UC Santa Barbara's bench provided 24 points, keeping the game competitive.

In the second half, UC Santa Barbara started with a 3-pointer by Stephan Swenson just two seconds in, assisted by Jason Fontenet II. Swenson also contributed with a steal at 19:51, which led to a successful tip-in bucket, followed by a free throw, narrowing the gap to 58-52. Despite this strong beginning, Northridge's defense intensified, resulting in several missed shots by the Gauchos. Notably, Swenson added another 3-pointer at 9:09 and executed a fast-break layup at 8:42, but Cal State Northridge maintained their lead with consistent scoring, eventually outpaced the Gauchos 103-77.

UP NEXT
The Gauchos will have a week to prepare for their final game of the regular season on Saturday, March 8. UC Santa Barbara will welcome UC Irvine to The Thunderdome for a 7 p.m. tip off. For those unable to attend in person, the game will be broadcast on ESPN+.