SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. — The California Polytechnic State University Cal Poly Mustangs women’s basketball team secured a 61-33 victory over the Whittier College Poets on November 5, 2026, at the Mott Athletics Center.
Cal Poly’s defense was dominant, forcing 24 turnovers and recording 17 steals, holding Whittier to 24.4 percent shooting (11-of-45). The Mustangs converted turnovers into 28 points. Cal Poly led 17-15 after the first quarter and extended their lead to 35-20 by halftime with an 18-5 second-quarter run.
Maddy Tauro led the Mustangs with 12 points, five assists, four steals and a block in 24 minutes. Dessirae Ulmer contributed 13 points on 5-of-8 shooting, along with eight rebounds, two blocks and two steals. Avery Knapp returned from injury to add 10 points and nine rebounds off the bench. Madison Butcher scored eight points, including two three-pointers, while Sumer Lee and Mecca Alexander provided additional scoring and defensive effort.
The Mustangs shot 41 percent from the floor and outrebounded Whittier 42-34, including a 16-10 edge on offensive rebounds. Cal Poly pushed the lead to 49-29 after three quarters and maintained control to win by 28 points.
Cal Poly improved to 2-0 on the season and will next play at Idaho State on November 9, followed by a home game against Seattle on November 11 at Mott Athletics Center.
CSB Take
Cal Poly’s strong defensive performance and balanced offensive contributions set a firm foundation early in the season. The return of Avery Knapp bolsters the team’s depth and versatility moving forward. Maintaining this level of defense while continuing to develop offensive consistency will be crucial as the Mustangs progress through their Big West Conference schedule.
Source: Original report
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