Gauchos Prepare for Season’s First Away Challenge

The UC Santa Barbara Gauchos are set to take on Sacramento State for their first away challenge of the 2025-26 basketball season. After a successful opening week, the Gauchos head north, confronting the Hornets on Tuesday, November 11.

Gauchos’ Strong Start to the Season

Last week, the Gauchos began their campaign with impressive wins. They defeated San Francisco State, showcasing standout performances. Zion Sensley scored a career-high 23 points, while CJ Shaw marked his freshman debut with an impressive 20 points. Both players significantly contributed to the team’s success in their initial matchups.

In a subsequent game, the Gauchos continued their winning streak, overcoming San Jose State. Notably, a minimum of four players from the team achieved double-digit points in both matches, indicating a well-rounded offensive effort.

Insights on the Sacramento State Hornets

Similar to the Gauchos, Sacramento State also started their season strong, posting a 2-0 record. They achieved victories against Dominican and Jessup in their opening week. This upcoming match marks the first time since the 2017-18 season that the Gauchos will face the Hornets in Sacramento, making it a notable event for both teams.

Offensive Focus and Key Players

The Hornets have been performing notably well offensively, averaging 94.5 points per game. The team features several players excelling in scoring, including:

• Jayden Teat: Leading scorer, averaging 20 points per game.
• Prophet Johnson: Averaging 18.5 points and 10 rebounds per game.
• Jeremiah: Averaging 16 points and 11 rebounds per game.

New Beginnings for the Hornets

The 2025-26 season is particularly significant for Sacramento State, as Mike Bibby steps into the role of head coach. This year, the entire roster consists of newcomers, marking a fresh start for the team. Additionally, the Hornets will play their games at The WELL, a newly adapted venue on campus, previously a fitness facility. This change represents a new chapter for the program and adds to the excitement of the season.

Game Details

The matchup between the Gauchos and the Hornets will tip off at 7 p.m. inside Hornet Pavilion. Fans can catch the game via ESPN+, and live statistics will be available for those unable to attend the game in person. This first away challenge is poised to be a thrilling encounter as both teams seek to maintain their undefeated records.