The California Baptist University men’s water polo team fell in two contests on October 24, 2026, at the Julian Fraser Memorial Invitational in San Jose, California, closing the day with losses to San Jose State University (20-14) and Princeton University (14-11). These results brought California Baptist’s overall season record to 22-8.
In the opening game against San Jose State, the Spartans gained an early lead by scoring four of the first five goals and maintained momentum to lead 10-8 at halftime. They extended their advantage with a 6-3 third period, ultimately securing the 20-14 victory. California Baptist’s Andrea Nuzzo and Whitley Beamon each tallied five points, with Beamon scoring three goals and two assists. Rafa Martinez and Aidan Olson contributed two goals apiece, while Michael Abshier shared a team-high of three assists.
The second match saw a competitive battle against sixth-ranked Princeton. California Baptist trailed 3-2 after the first period but tied the match 7-7 by halftime, thanks in part to two goals from Wyatt Bugbee. The Lancers outscored the Tigers 4-2 in the third period to take an 11-10 lead entering the fourth. However, they were unable to score in the final quarter while Princeton netted four unanswered goals, resulting in a 14-11 defeat. Andrea Nuzzo led the team offensively with two goals and four assists. Bugbee and Martinez each contributed two goals, and goalkeeper Tyler Carson recorded six saves.
The game against San Jose State revived a rivalry from California Baptist’s time in the West Coast Conference. The team will now return home to face Long Beach State on October 31, 2026, at the Lancer Aquatics Center.
CSB Take
The California Baptist University men’s water polo team showed grit and offensive firepower in a challenging Julian Fraser Memorial Invitational against high-caliber opponents. Andrea Nuzzo’s consistent scoring and playmaking stood out in both games, indicating strong leadership on the offensive end. Although the team suffered two defeats, these competitive matches provide valuable experience as the Lancers prepare for their upcoming conference schedule. The forthcoming home game against Long Beach State presents a key opportunity to regroup and gain momentum heading into the rest of the season.
Source: Original report
