Cal Poly basketball delivered an electrifying performance Saturday, outlasting UC Riverside 112-100 in a heart-pounding overtime victory that reshapes Big West Conference dynamics. Jarred Hyder dominated with 25 points and nine rebounds, showcasing clutch play as the Mustangs snapped a four-game skid.
The Mustangs (11-17, 5-11 Big West) trailed by seven at halftime before mounting a second-half surge. Peter Bandelj’s 24-point contribution proved vital, including three critical three-pointers. Our team showed championship resilience tonight, Cal Poly coach John Smith told reporters postgame.
When games go to overtime, it’s about who wants it more – and our boys wanted it.
UC Riverside (18-11, 11-6) suffered a costly blow to their conference title hopes despite Barrington Hargress’ 25-point effort. Key moments included:
- Cayden Ward’s 16-point surge in regulation’s final eight minutes
- Three technical fouls called during heated fourth-quarter exchanges
- Mustangs’ 18-6 overtime scoring run
This college basketball thriller saw both teams shoot above 45% from the field, with Cal Poly converting 78% of free throws in overtime. The result leaves UC Riverside needing two wins to secure a tournament bye, while the Mustangs climb out of the conference basement.