Matadors Aim for Sixth Straight Win Against Anteaters

IRVINE, Calif. – The CSU Northridge Matadors (18-7, 10-4 Big West) will look to extend their winning streak to six games as they face the UC Irvine Anteaters (22-4, 12-2 Big West) at the Bren Events Center on February 20, 2025. This clash of top contenders in the Big West Conference is set to tip-off at 10:00 PM ET.

UC Irvine enters the matchup following a decisive 66-49 victory over Hawaii, led by Bent Leuchten, who scored 21 points. On the other hand, CSU Northridge achieved a thrilling 89-85 win against Cal Poly, with Scotty Washington netting a team-high 29 points.

Both teams have shown impressive form, with Northridge winning five in a row, while Irvine has dominated their recent performances. The Anteaters have outperformed their opponents with an average scoring difference of 9.8 points per game, ranking 25th in the country in points allowed at 65.1 per game. Their own offensive output stands at 74.9 points, placing them 156th nationally.

In contrast, the Matadors average 81.0 points per game, good for 35th in NCAA rankings, but allow 71.4 per contest. Their scoring differential of 9.6 also showcases their resilient offensive capabilities. CSU Northridge is known for its three-point prowess, hitting 6.8 shots from beyond the arc per game while maintaining a 34.3% shooting percentage.

The recent form of both teams adds to the tension surrounding this important mid-season matchup. In their last ten games, UC Irvine has averaged 74.2 points, reflecting a minor dip in efficiency relative to their season average. Meanwhile, Northridge has struggled to consistently maintain their offensive output, averaging just under 80 points in their last ten games.

Prominent players from both teams are set to shine in this encounter. The Anteaters will rely on Leuchten, who not only leads in scoring but also contributes significantly on defense with 1.3 blocks per game. Other notable performers include Devin Tillis, averaging 13.8 points and 8.0 rebounds, and Myles Che with 12.3 points per game.

For CSU Northridge, Marcus Adams Jr. leads with 15.9 points and 4.8 rebounds, followed closely by Washington. Keonte Jones has also been a pivotal contributor, averaging 13.1 points and an impressive 9.6 rebounds, embodying the team’s aggressive rebounding strategy against a strong Irvine front.

As both teams prepare for this pivotal clash, the stakes remain high in the Big West standings. Each game’s outcome could dictate postseason positioning, intensifying the rivalry as they hit the court in front of eager fans at Bren Events Center.

Tickets are still available for those wishing to witness this thrilling matchup live, while fans can follow the game through various streaming services. Notably, the success of the Anteaters hinges on maintaining their defensive intensity, a pattern they have established throughout the season. In contrast, Northridge will aim to exploit opportunities beyond the arc as they challenge UC Irvine’s perimeter defense.