TURLOCK – The Cal State Monterey Bay women's basketball team opened the 2026 portion of its schedule with a 78–72 overtime victory at Stanislaus State on Friday night at Fitzpatrick Arena.
 
The Otters built a strong start with a 22–10 first quarter and maintained a lead through most of regulation, but Stanislaus State battled back late to force overtime.
 
In the extra period, CSUMB pulled ahead with timely scoring and made free throws that sealed the win by outscoring Stanislaus, 12-6.
 
Sophomore Leah Sarabia led the Otters with 17 points, adding nine rebounds, seven assists and three steals, while playing 34 minutes. Junior Jennifer Moreno Ortiz contributed 16 points and senior Jayden McNeal returned to the floor and finished with 12 points off the bench.
 
Newcomer Riley Walls scored eight points and hit two three-pointers, while senior A'ajah Slocum added six points and seven assists. Sophomore
 
Brianna Bouton provided seven points and Aliyah Young chipped in six as part of CSUMB's balanced scoring effort.
 
CSUMB shot 42-percent from the field and made 14-of-19 free throws, including four made in the overtime that helped secure the final.
 
The Otters also hit six three-pointers and scored 26 fast-break points as they extended possessions and capitalized on transition opportunities. Overall, CSUMB finished with 49 rebounds and forced 20 turnovers while collecting 29 bench points.
 
The 2026 calendar season continues on the road when the Otters face UC Merced for a Sunday matinee at 1 p.m.