UC Irvine enters this Big West home game firmly positioned as one of the top teams in the conference, carrying an outstanding record that has them atop the standings heading into January. The Anteaters have built their success on balanced scoring, stout defense, and strong ball movement — all contributing to their status as a preseason favorite to win the Big West. In the league’s coaches’ poll, UCI was selected to finish first, buoyed by key returning contributors and high expectations for a deep conference run.  Early in the season, UC Irvine’s offense has shown efficiency and depth, with scoring spread among multiple players and consistent production both at home and in non‑conference play. Their unselfish approach often leads to high assist numbers, and while exact stats vary week‑to‑week, the Anteaters rank among the better rebounding and assist‑oriented units in the Big West. Defensively, Irvine has been disciplined, ranking well in field‑goal percentage defense and limiting opponents’ clean looks. Senior forward Kyle Evans has been a standout presence in the paint, ranking near the top nationally in blocks and anchoring the interior defense with rim protection that few league opponents can counter.

 At the other end, guards like Jurian Dixon and Derin Saran orchestrate the offense while also applying pressure in transition, creating turnovers and kick‑starting scoring chances. The combination of veteran leadership and emerging underclassmen gives UCI a dynamic roster capable of adjusting to different game tempos. Playing at the Bren Events Center, the Anteaters benefit from a strong home‑court environment and familiarity that often translates to second‑half runs and momentum swings in their favor. Over recent seasons, Irvine has routinely posted one of the better home records in the Big West, and their confidence playing in front of a supportive crowd is a real advantage.  As Long Beach State comes to town, Irvine will look to establish dominance early, control pace, and force turnovers that fuel easy buckets — a strategy that has helped them maintain leads late into conference games and build separation on both ends of the floor. With a blend of experience, athleticism, and tactical discipline, UC Irvine is poised to extend its home success and stay atop the Big West race.