Cal State Fullerton men's basketball team defeats Long Beach State

Joshua Ward's late free throws seal the victory for Fullerton in Big West Conference matchup

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Cal State Fullerton men's basketball team overcame a tough start to defeat Long Beach State 86-82 in a Big West Conference game on Thursday night. Joshua Ward, who had a shaky beginning to the game, made crucial free throws in the final seconds to break a tie and seal the victory for Fullerton.

Why it matters

This win is an important conference victory for the surging Cal State Fullerton team, who are looking to make a push in the Big West standings. The game was a close battle between two rival programs in the region.

The details

Ward, who had two turnovers and two missed shots to start the game, finished with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. He made two free throws with 16.8 seconds left to break an 82-82 tie, and then hit two more with 3.6 seconds remaining to secure the win for Fullerton.

  • The game was played on Thursday, February 13, 2026.
  • Ward made the game-winning free throws with 16.8 seconds and 3.6 seconds left in the contest.

The players

Joshua Ward

A key player for the Cal State Fullerton men's basketball team who overcame a tough start to make crucial free throws down the stretch to lead his team to victory.

Dedrique Taylor

The head coach of the Cal State Fullerton men's basketball team, who praised Ward's performance in the clutch situation.

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What they’re saying

“You couldn't ask for a better situation and a better guy”

— Dedrique Taylor, Head Coach, Cal State Fullerton

The takeaway

This win showcases the resilience and clutch play of the Cal State Fullerton men's basketball team, who were able to overcome an early deficit and make the necessary plays down the stretch to secure an important conference victory over a rival opponent.