SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. – For the second straight outing, Seattle University men's basketball gained a late lead, but could not hold on down the stretch, falling 75-71 to Cal Poly Thursday night at the Mott Athletics Center.
The Redhawks took a 70-67 lead on a Brayden Maldonado steal and full court layup with 2:39 remaining, but would not score another field goal down the stretch. A costly turnover just under a minute to play and a pair of missed free throws to potentially tie the game with six seconds remaining seal their fate.
John Christofilis had 16 points to lead a trio of players in double figures. Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe tallied his second double-double in three games, finishing with 14 points and 15 boards. Brayden Maldonado added 13 points, including a trio of threes.
The Mustangs were paced by Isaac Jesus and Mac Riniker who had 14 points apiece. Owen Koonce and Darren Hyde added 13 and 12 points, respectively as the home team hit 49% from the field for the game.
Seattle U led 27-22 with 7:45 remaining in the first half. Cal Poly then went on a 15-4 run to close out the frame and lead 37-31 at the break.
The Redhawks showed signs of taking some control early in the second, forcing four turnovers in the opening four minutes. But Cal Poly used its relentless pace and 54% shooting in the frame to keep in striking distance and ultimately capitalize on Seattle U's mistakes.
The Redhawks remain on the road Saturday, continuing south to face UC San Diego in a 7 p.m. tip off at LionTree Arena in La Jolla, Calif.
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