Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, the Cal Poly Mustangs will face the UC Riverside Highlanders in a Big West Conference men's basketball matchup at the Robert A. Mott Athletics Center in San Luis Obispo, California. This game marks the conference opener for both teams, making it a crucial early-season contest that could set the tone for their league campaigns.
Season Snapshot
Cal Poly Mustangs
The Mustangs enter the game with a 3-5 overall record. They have shown a potent offense, averaging 80.8 points per game, but have struggled defensively, allowing 86.1 points per game. Their shooting efficiency stands at 42% from the field. Notably, guard Hamad Mousa leads the team with 18.3 points per game, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. (espn.com)
UC Riverside Highlanders
The Highlanders have a 4-3 overall record. They have been slightly more efficient offensively, averaging 75.9 points per game, while conceding 71.7 points per game. Their field goal percentage is 47%. Guard Andrew Henderson leads the team with 17.9 points per game, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. (espn.com)
Recent Form
Both teams have had mixed results in their recent games. Cal Poly has lost their last two games, indicating a need to regain momentum. UC Riverside, on the other hand, has won their last two games, suggesting they are entering the conference play with confidence. (espn.com)
Talking Points
- Offensive Firepower: Cal Poly's high-scoring offense faces a test against UC Riverside's efficient shooting.
- Defensive Challenges: Both teams have struggled defensively; which will improve first?
- Key Player Matchups: Hamad Mousa vs. Andrew Henderson could be pivotal.
- Home Court Advantage: Cal Poly's home crowd support may influence the game's outcome.
Players to Watch
- Hamad Mousa (Cal Poly): Averaging 18.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, Mousa is the Mustangs' offensive leader. (espn.com)
- Andrew Henderson (UC Riverside): Leading the Highlanders with 17.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, Henderson is a versatile threat. (espn.com)
- Kobe Sanders (Cal Poly): Known for his scoring ability, Sanders has had multiple 20-point games this season. (gopoly.com)
- Isaiah Moses (UC Riverside): A key contributor in recent games, Moses has demonstrated scoring prowess. (bigwest.org)
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Mousa vs. Henderson: The battle between Cal Poly's Mousa and UC Riverside's Henderson will be crucial, as both are central to their teams' offenses.
- Cal Poly's Home Advantage: Playing at the Mott Athletics Center, the Mustangs will look to leverage home support to overcome their recent losses.
- Defensive Adjustments: Both teams need to address their defensive lapses to secure a win.
Fun Facts
- Cal Poly's last victory over UC Riverside was a 71-45 road win on January 31, 2019. (gopoly.com)
- The Mustangs have reached the semifinals in six of 20 Big West Tournament appearances. (gopoly.com)
- UC Riverside leads the all-time series 60-52. (gopoly.com)
Things to Chirp About
- "Can Cal Poly's offense bounce back after two straight losses?"
- "Will UC Riverside's recent winning streak continue on the road?"
- "How will the Mousa-Henderson matchup impact the game's outcome?"
- "Is home court advantage enough for Cal Poly to secure a win?"
Prediction
This game is expected to be closely contested, with both teams possessing potent offenses and defensive vulnerabilities. Cal Poly's home advantage and the performance of key players like Hamad Mousa could tilt the balance in their favor. However, UC Riverside's recent form and the leadership of Andrew Henderson make them formidable opponents. The outcome may hinge on which team can make the necessary defensive adjustments and capitalize on scoring opportunities.