IRVINE, Calif. — The UC Santa Barbara men's basketball team fell to UC Irvine 64-60 in a closely contested Big West matchup at the Bren Events Center. UC Santa Barbara trailed by nine at halftime but surged with a 37-point second half, highlighted by 11 three-pointers, to keep the game tight.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
The first half began with UCI establishing an early lead. The Gauchos responded with a 3-pointer from Marvin McGhee IV at the 13:01 mark, bringing the score to 13-7. Despite this effort, UC Santa Barbara faced challenges with turnovers, totaling eight in the half, which allowed the Anteaters to capitalize.
 
UC Santa Barbara's offense was highlighted by five successful 3-pointers, including a late one by Aidan Mahaney at 1:00, cutting the deficit to 32-23 by the end of the half. Despite trailing, the Gauchos showed resilience in the closing minutes, keeping the game competitive as they moved into the next half.
 
UC Santa Barbara opened the second half with a 3-pointer by Zion Sensley at 18:00, narrowing the gap against the Anteaters. Colin Smith contributed significantly with multiple 3-pointers, helping the Gauchos take a brief lead at 14:48. One of several lead changes in the half.
 
The Gauchos' defense was active with key blocks and defensive rebounds, while Sensley added points in the paint to keep the game close. Despite their efforts, a late surge by the Anteaters in the closing minutes shifted the momentum, and the Gauchos trailed by three points. The Gauchos ultimately fell 64-60.
 
UP NEXT
UC Santa Barbara will have a week to prepare for UC San Diego. The Gauchos and Tritons will tip off at 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 7. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ with live stats available.