CSUN Men's Basketball Grabs Share of Big West Lead

Matadors hold off late rally from Long Beach State to move into three-way tie atop conference standings

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Cal State Northridge men's basketball team defeated Long Beach State 78-76 on the road, moving into a three-way tie for first place in the Big West Conference standings. Josiah Davis led the Matadors with 21 points and 9 rebounds in the hard-fought victory.

Why it matters

This win puts CSUN in a strong position in the Big West race, as they look to secure an NCAA Tournament berth. The Matadors were able to withstand a late rally from a talented Long Beach State squad, demonstrating their resilience and ability to win tough road games against conference rivals.

The details

CSUN built a lead in the second half, but Long Beach State made a furious comeback attempt in the final minutes. The Matadors were able to hold on for the 78-76 victory, led by Josiah Davis' 21 points and 9 rebounds.

  • The game was played on February 22, 2026.

The players

Josiah Davis

The leading scorer for the Cal State Northridge Matadors, contributing 21 points and 9 rebounds in the win.

Cal State Northridge Matadors

The men's basketball team from California State University, Northridge that earned a road victory over Long Beach State to move into a three-way tie for first place in the Big West Conference.

Long Beach State

The men's basketball team from California State University, Long Beach that mounted a late comeback effort against CSUN but ultimately fell short.

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What’s next

CSUN will look to build on this win as they continue their push for the Big West title and an NCAA Tournament berth. Their next game is at home against UC Irvine on February 27th.

The takeaway

This hard-fought road victory demonstrates the resilience and talent of the CSUN men's basketball team, as they now find themselves in a three-way tie for first place in the competitive Big West Conference.