UC Riverside and Hawaii Face Off in Tight Big West Basketball Clash

UC Riverside and Hawaii are set to clash in a highly anticipated Big West basketball game on Thursday night at the Student Recreation Center in Riverside, California. The game, scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET, comes as both teams look to build momentum in the conference standings.

Hawaii enters the game with a 9-5 record, fresh off a 68-55 victory over Cal Poly last Sunday. The Warriors showcased their teamwork with 17 assists, their highest total since March 2024. Meanwhile, UC Riverside, standing at 10-6, is looking to bounce back from a disappointing 81-57 loss to UC Irvine on Saturday.

The two teams have a history of close matchups, with each winning five of their last 10 encounters. Their most recent meeting in March 2024 saw Hawaii edge out UC Riverside 76-73. Rebounding could play a pivotal role in Thursday’s game, as Hawaii averages 36.5 rebounds per game, while UC Riverside slightly outperforms them with 37.6.

UC Riverside is favored by 2.5 points, according to the latest odds, with an over/under set at 134.5 points. The game promises to be a competitive battle, with both teams eager to secure a crucial conference win.

Despite wildfires affecting parts of Southern California, the game is set to proceed as scheduled. Big West Commissioner Dan Butterly confirmed that all conference games, including this one, will go ahead as planned. Hawaii’s team arrived in Los Angeles on Tuesday, with head coach Eran Ganot praising the pilot for navigating turbulent conditions during their flight.

Fans can catch the action live and follow the latest updates as these two teams vie for supremacy in the Big West.