POMONA, Calif. - Cal Poly Pomona opened its 2026 home slate with a setback, falling 79-75 to Cal State Monterey Bay in CCAA play. The loss drops the Broncos to 8-5 overall and 3-4 in conference action, as Monterey Bay controlled key stretches despite a late push from CPP.
The Otters set the tone early with efficient offense and strong play in transition, building an early lead. Cal Poly Pomona worked to stabilize behind interior scoring from Kevin Simeth and aggressive drives by Malcolm Bell, but Monterey Bay maintained the edge throughout much of the first half. A late sequence at the free-throw line allowed the Broncos to close the gap slightly, trailing 36-34 at halftime.
Monterey Bay regained momentum coming out of the break, using timely three-point shooting and capitalizing on turnovers to create separation. While CPP generated looks inside and continued to compete on the glass, offensive consistency proved difficult to sustain as the Otters pushed the lead into double figures midway through the second half.
The Broncos made a late run behind defensive stops and transition baskets, trimming the deficit to one possession in the final minute, but Monterey Bay answered from the free-throw line to close out the game.
Up Next:
The Broncos remain at home to face CCAA opponent Cal State San Marcos on Saturday, January 10th at 3:30 PM.
Bronco Bits:
- Greg Kamansky is now 478-221 as the head coach of the Broncos
- Now in its 78th season, CPP Men's Basketball is 1,174-929 all-time with a 511-420 record in CCAA games
- Kevin Simeth had a season high of 15 points and 18 rebounds
- The Broncos dominated in points off the bench totaling 17 compared to Monterey Bay's four.
