Cal Poly edges out Grambling with late-game heroics

Cal Poly faced Grambling in a closely contested basketball game in San Luis Obispo, California. The match took place on Tuesday, showcasing skills from both teams. Owen Koonce and Isaac Jessup led the Mustangs with 17 points each, contributing significantly to their team's performance. Koonce also added eight rebounds, while Jessup secured seven rebounds, indicating a strong presence on both ends of the court. The game had intense moments, particularly in the final minutes, which culminated when Ernest Ross of Grambling hit a three-pointer, bringing the score to 80-79 with just 56 seconds remaining. In a clutch response, Jarred Hyder secured the win for Cal Poly by making two free throws with only three seconds left in the game. Grambling, performing under the pressure, was led by Antwan Barnett, who scored the highest for his team with 21 points alongside six rebounds, demonstrating his ability to score effectively. Chilaydrien Newton also made a strong contribution with 17 points. Ross, apart from his critical three-pointer, ended the game with 16 points, eight rebounds, and four blocks, showcasing his versatility on both offense and defense. Despite their efforts, Grambling’s record fell to 1-5, while Cal Poly improved to 4-4. The match highlighted the competitive nature of college basketball and the differences in team records as they strive to improve. Cal Poly's timely execution in the closing minutes was critical in securing the victory, which reflects their growth as a team and their ability to perform under pressure. With the season continuing, both teams will look to build on this game to enhance their standings and prepare for upcoming challenges in their respective schedules.