UC Irvine Edges Out CSU Northridge in Thrilling Big West Matchup

NORTHRIDGE, Calif. (AP) — A last-second layup by Derin Saran propelled UC Irvine to a 68-67 victory over CSU Northridge on Thursday, February 26, 2026, in a tightly contested Big West Conference game.

Game Highlights

Jurian Dixon led the Anteaters in scoring with 14 points, shooting 6 of 12 from the field, including 2 of 5 from three-point range. Saran contributed 13 points, shooting 6 of 14, and added five rebounds and four steals. Harrison Carrington added 11 points, shooting 5 of 7, along with five rebounds and three steals for UC Irvine.

For CSU Northridge, Josh O’Garro finished with a strong performance, recording 17 points, 10 rebounds, and three steals. Josiah Davis added 15 points and six assists, while Larry Hughes Jr. Chipped in with 12 points and three steals.

Key Stats

• UC Irvine: 19-10 12-5 Big West
• CSU Northridge: 18-11 11-6 Big West
• Field Goal Percentage: UC Irvine 47% (27-58), CSU Northridge 41% (25-61)
• Three-Point Percentage: UC Irvine 31% (5-16), CSU Northridge 21% (4-19)
• Free Throw Percentage: UC Irvine 82% (9-11), CSU Northridge 62% (13-21)
• Turnovers: UC Irvine 18, CSU Northridge 17
• Rebounds: UC Irvine 33, CSU Northridge 37

Game Summary

The game remained closely contested throughout, with UC Irvine ultimately securing the win with Saran’s game-winning layup as time expired. The loss snapped a seven-game winning streak for CSU Northridge.

Looking Ahead

Both teams will continue their Big West Conference schedules with upcoming games. UC Irvine looks to build on this momentum, while CSU Northridge aims to rebound from the narrow defeat.

Source: AP News