RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Grand Canyon University celebrated a big win this weekend. They beat California Baptist 74-56, marking their longest winning streak in the nation’s series at 23 games. This victory also clinched a share of the WAC regular-season title for the first time ever for GCU.
The Lopes improved their record to 25-2 overall, with an impressive 12-0 in WAC play. After UT Arlington lost to Tarleton State, GCU secured this title with four games left in the season. If they win against UT Arlington this Thursday, they will claim the title outright.
Some key highlights from the game include:
– GCU’s 25 wins set a new record for the program in its Division I history, surpassing last year’s total of 24. They are on track to tie the all-time record of 29 wins from the 2010-11 season.
– Senior guard Trinity San Antonio scored 20 points for the third game in a row, contributing six assists and seven steals. This was her second game back in Riverside since transferring from CBU to GCU in summer 2023.
– Alyssa Durazo-Frescas led the game with 21 points, hitting seven 3-pointers, marking her sixth game with six or more 3s.
GCU head coach Molly Miller expressed her pride in the team, stating, “We hadn’t talked about the possibility of a regular-season championship before the game, but I wanted to share the news with Tiarra Brown. I’m proud of the team’s commitment and hard work.”
The Lopes played their best first quarter of the season, scoring 27 points with four 3-pointers and shooting 57% overall. By the end of the first quarter, they had established a strong 27-14 lead. Their defense stepped up in the second quarter, allowing only seven points and forcing the Lancers to struggle with their shooting.
GCU entered the halftime locker room with a 21-point lead and maintained control in the second half, despite only shooting 35% from the floor. California Baptist tried to close the gap, pulling within 12 points in the fourth quarter. However, Durazo-Frescas and San Antonio made crucial shots to secure the win.
“Our strength coach reminded us that we all rely on each other,” Miller added. “I’m grateful for the belief from our administration and the support of our fans. This championship is a collective achievement.”
The Lancers struggled with free-throw shooting, making only four out of 13, while GCU shot 7-of-9 from the line. The Lopes maintained their shooting consistency, hitting 50% from the field for the sixth game in a row and forcing California Baptist into 24 turnovers compared to their own 12.
With just four regular-season games left, GCU’s upcoming schedule includes a trip to UT Arlington this Thursday, followed by a home game against Seattle U on March 1.
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