SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — The UC Santa Barbara men's basketball team avenged its New Year's Day loss to Cal St. Fullerton, Saturday night in an 83-69. UCSB never trailed in the game, leading by nine at halftime and extending its advantage in the second half. The Gauchos capitalized on turnovers, scoring 25 points off Cal St. Fullerton's 15. UCSB's bench contributed significantly, adding 38 points to secure the victory in this pivotal conference matchup.
 
FROM HEAD COACH JOE PASTERNACK
"This was a big week for us; it wasn't easy going down to UC San Diego and traveling back to play a team that put up 95 on us last time we played," said Pasternack. "Fullerton is a good team, and in the first half, we played excellent defense. We tailed off a bit in the second and we have to be able to put two halves together."
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
UC Santa Barbara started the first half with a strong offensive effort, highlighted by Miro Little's opening layup. Little continued to impact the game, converting a jumper and a pair of free throws, while also contributing defensively with a block and several rebounds. The Gauchos maintained momentum with effective ball movement, evidenced by Marvin McGhee IV's assisted 3-pointer and Colin Smith's contributions on both ends.
 
The team capitalized on turnovers, with multiple steals from Smith and CJ Shaw, allowing for quick transition points. UCSB extended its advantage through strong outside shooting, including Aidan Mahaney's 3-pointer. By the end of the first half, UCSB held a 38–29 lead over Fullerton.
 
UC Santa Barbara capitalized on a strong start in the second half, with Zion Sensley making an impactful jumper early on. The Gauchos maintained momentum with a 3-pointer from Smith, assisted by Little, extending their lead. UCSB's defense was effective, producing key turnovers and limiting CSUF's scoring opportunities.
 
Midway through the half, UCSB surged ahead with a series of successful shots, including a fast-break dunk by McGhee IV. The team further widened the gap with consistent scoring from both the perimeter and the paint, assisted frequently by Little. The Gauchos showed control with superior rebounding and passing, outpacing the Titans by 21 rebounds to 14.
 
As the game closed, UCSB's scoring efficiency and defensive stops were crucial in maintaining a comfortable lead. The Gauchos never trailed and won convincingly 83-69.
 
UP NEXT
UC Santa Barbara will hit the road on Thursday, Feb. 5, as they travel to Davis, California. The Gauchos and Aggies will tip off at 6 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ with live stats available.