The UC Irvine Anteaters secured a 68‑67 buzzer‑beater victory over the CSU Northridge Matadors on Thursday, thanks to senior guard Derin Saran’s last‑second layup. The win keeps UC Irvine tied for first place in the Big West Conference at 11‑5, maintaining a three‑way race with Hawaii and CSUN as the regular season nears its climax.
Thrilling Finish
Derin Saran finished with 13 points and drove into the paint for the decisive layup as the final buzzer sounded. The basket ignited the crowd at Premier America Credit Union Arena and turned a one‑second Matadors lead into a heartbreaking loss. UC Irvine improved to 18‑10 overall.
Game Context
Entering the matchup, the Anteaters were in a three‑way tie at the top of the Big West. Two days earlier they fell 71‑69 at UC San Diego, then rebounded with a 69‑58 win over Long Beach State on Feb. 19. Thursday’s triumph served as a crucial bounce‑back.
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Big West Implications
Holding a share of first place heightens the pressure as UC Irvine prepares for its final three home games at the Bren Events Center. Those contests could determine whether the Anteaters finish as outright champions or share the title, affect tournament seeding, and bolster a potential at‑large NCAA bid.
Key Performers
- Derin Saran – 13 points, game‑winning layup.
- Mason Hernandez – 7 assists, three crucial three‑pointers.
- Ethan Keller – Double‑double with 12 points and 10 rebounds.
- Jalen Morris (CSUN) – Team‑high 18 points.
Looking Ahead
The Anteaters return to the Bren Events Center for their last three regular‑season games. A home‑court advantage combined with the momentum from Thursday’s win could break the tie and secure sole possession of the conference lead.
Coach David Petrik stressed focus after the victory: “We earned this win the hard way, and the conference is still wide open. Our job is to keep executing, stay disciplined, and finish the season strong.”
Bottom Line
The 68‑67 buzzer‑beater over CSU Northridge adds a vital win to UC Irvine’s record and injects confidence as the Big West race tightens. With three home games remaining, every possession will determine whether the Anteaters advance to postseason prominence or watch the opportunity slip away.
