UC Irvine defeats UC San Diego in close game

Anteaters earn 61-59 victory behind Jurian Dixon's late floater

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The UC Irvine Anteaters defeated the UC San Diego Tritons 61-59 in a close college basketball matchup. Jurian Dixon led the Anteaters with 12 points, including the go-ahead floater with 28 seconds remaining to secure the victory for UC Irvine.

Why it matters

This win is an important conference victory for UC Irvine as they look to improve their standing in the Big West standings. The close nature of the game also highlights the competitive balance in the conference this season.

The details

In a back-and-forth contest, UC Irvine was able to make the crucial plays down the stretch to edge out UC San Diego. Dixon's late floater broke a 59-59 tie and proved to be the difference in the game.

  • The game was played on February 20, 2026.

The players

Jurian Dixon

A key player for the UC Irvine Anteaters who scored 12 points, including the go-ahead basket in the final minute of the game.

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The takeaway

This close victory showcases the competitive nature of the Big West conference this season, as UC Irvine was able to narrowly defeat a tough UC San Diego squad.