Tonight was a match up between Long Beach State and UC Santa Barbara. The past 3 years have been an INTENSE rivalry between these two teams. UCSB being led by Orlando Johnson, James Nunnally and Jaime Serna. Long Beach led by Casper Ware, Eugene Phelps, Larry Anderson and TJ Robinson. This was a guaranteed packed house to watch the two greatest teams in the Big West go head-to-head. Tonight was much different – all of those players graduated last year, and now it was a new round of players. This game was certainly a close one – showing that neither team has given up their edge when it comes to playing against their reputations.
In attendance were Casper Ware and Eugene Phelps. Both players have had successful careers thus far overseas and were in town to visit. President F. King Alexander introduced both players to the crowd. He also gave Casper Ware the game ball that was used to win the Big West Championship last year. It was great for the fans to see these two players they had really supported and loved the past 4 years.
As the game went on, with 14.5 seconds left, both teams were tied at 55. Long Beach brings the ball in and UCSB un intentionally fouls Mike Caffey. He knocks down both free throws, giving LB the 2 point lead. With hardly any time left on the clock, UCSB rushes the ball down court and throws up a shot but doesn’t beat the buzzer. Long Beach wins in another very close game of this season. Long Beach continues to lead the Big West in wins. Next they will be playing the number 2 seed in the conference, Cal Pol SLO. Stay tuned…
cassy athena 