Long Beach State mens water polo team lost 13-8 to UC Santa Barbara in a Big West Conference game on October 24, 2026, at Santa Barbara High School.
UC Santa Barbara scored first and led 6-3 at halftime, aided by a .406 shooting percentage and strong defense that limited Long Beach State to just two power play goals on 13 chances. The Gauchos extended their lead to 12-6 in the fourth quarter before the Beach scored two late goals. Long Beach State finished with a .320 shooting percentage.
Goalkeeper William Whitstone made nine saves for Long Beach State. Marc Frigola and Harper Stewart each scored two goals, and Stewart added two assists. Six different players scored for the Beach, including Federico Gulisano and ZalE1n Nagy. The loss brought Long Beach States record to 15-7 overall and 1-2 in Big West play. The all-time series record now stands at 58-52 in favor of Long Beach State.
Long Beach State will visit California Baptist on October 31 for their next Big West game, with the first sprint scheduled for noon.
CSB Take
Long Beach States difficulty capitalizing on power plays was a critical factor in their loss to UC Santa Barbara, despite a strong individual effort by William Whitstone in goal. Improving efficiency on extra-man opportunities and shooting percentage will be essential for Long Beach State as they prepare to face California Baptist. How the team addresses these issues could dictate their success in the remainder of Big West competition this season.
Source: Original report
