Scotty Washington exploded for a season-high 29 points to propel Cal State Northridge to an electrifying 89-85 win over Cal Poly in a pivotal Big West Conference matchup Saturday night. The Matadors (18-7, 10-4) tightened their grip on a top-three conference standings spot, while the Mustangs (10-16, 4-10) saw their playoff hopes dim.
Washington dominated from all angles, sinking 10-of-16 field goals and hitting every shot from the charity stripe. His 5-for-8 three-point clinic kept Northridge ahead during Cal Poly’s late push.
“When Scotty’s locked in from deep, we’re nearly unstoppable,”said Matadors assistant coach Derek Brown postgame.
Key contributors showcased the Matadors’ depth:
- Marcus Adams Jr.: 17 points, 10 rebounds
- Keonte Jones: 16 points, 4 steals
Cal Poly’s Owen Koonce countered with 21 points and 4 steals, but the Mustangs’ defense struggled to contain Washington’s offensive outburst. Isaac Jessup’s 18 points and 5 steals highlighted a gritty effort that fell just short.
The win positions Cal State Northridge for a critical Thursday road test against conference leader UC Irvine, while Cal Poly faces UC San Diego needing immediate momentum to salvage their postseason aspirations.