Cal Poly sophomore guard Vanessa McManus scored 31 points in Thursday night’s home game against CSUN, but the Mustangs women’s basketball team was defeated 77-68.
McManus, who made 10 of her 18 field goal attempts, registered her second game this season with more than 30 points. She tallied 21 of those in the first half. Freshman forward Charish Thompson contributed 15 points and five rebounds for Cal Poly, which now has a record of 3-12 overall and 1-4 in Big West play.
CSUN was led by Jite Gbemuotor with 16 points. Morgan Edwards added 15 points and Mariona Cos-morales scored 13. The Matadors shot 45 percent as a team and secured 18 offensive rebounds, converting those into 21 second-chance points.
The game was closely contested during the first half. CSUN established an early lead, finishing the opening quarter ahead by four. The Matadors extended their advantage before halftime, leading Cal Poly by six at intermission.
In the third quarter, CSUN built its lead to double digits. Cal Poly reduced the margin to six in the final period but could not complete a comeback.
Cal Poly will travel north to play UC Davis on Saturday at 2 p.m., with coverage available on ESPN+.
