Box Score | UCSD Presser | CP Presser | Game Highlights
HENDERSON, Nev. -- No. 5 seed UC San Diego (23-10, 12-8 Big West) narrowly defeated No. 8 seed Cal Poly (14-19, 10-10 Big West) 72-69 on Wednesday at Lee's Family Forum in the 2026 Credit Union 1 Big West Championship First Round. UC San Diego overcame a nine-point halftime deficit by outscoring Cal Poly 46-34 in the second half.  In a tense matchup that featured eight ties and nine lead changes, the Tritons capitalized on 43 combined points from guards Tom Beattie and Hudson Mayes to get the victory. 

UC San Diego faced a challenging first 20 minutes, falling behind to Cal Poly 35-26. The Mustangs capitalized on their first-half shooting efficiency, making 14-of-29 field goals and converting four 3-pointers, while the Tritons managed only 10-of-27 from the field. 

UC San Diego held off Cal Poly in a tense second half, ultimately outscoring the visitors 46-34. A pivotal moment came with 4 seconds left as the Mustangs were trying to foul, when Bol Dengdit's dunk secured the final margin. The Tritons excelled in points in the paint, achieving a 22-point advantage, while also converting 14-of-19 free throws to maintain the edge. The Tritons' bench contributed significantly with 12 fast-break points, aiding in their narrow victory. 

Mayes led the Tritons with a standout performance, contributing 23 points while shooting 10-for-16 from the field and notching two steals. Beattie also made a significant impact with 20 points, including two three-pointers, and added four assists. Dengdit added 11 points to the tally, going a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line. Leo Beath was instrumental on the boards, securing a team-high eight rebounds.

Hamad Mousa emerged as a key player for the Mustangs, leading the team with 21 points and an impressive 8 field goals made. Mousa also contributed with 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Cayden Ward added significant value with his perfect performance from the free-throw line, sinking all six attempts, and tied for the team lead in rebounds with nine. 

The Tritons advance to Thursday's Big West Championship second round and will match up against No. 4 seed CSUN at 6 p.m.