IRVINE, Calif. — The UC Riverside Highlanders couldn't sustain their first-half lead, falling 81-57 to UC Irvine on Thursday night at the Bren Events Center. The Highlanders dropped to 3-1 in Big West play after a tough second half.

HOW IT HAPPENED

• Barrington Hargress led the Highlanders with 20 points, including three 3-pointers, and added a steal in 28 minutes of action.
• Isaiah Moses contributed eight points and three rebounds, while Niyi Olabode chipped in five points and a team-high 10 rebounds.
• UC Riverside started strong, building a 35-29 halftime lead, but struggled in the second half, where they were outscored 52-22.
• Despite pulling down 12 offensive rebounds and scoring 14 second-chance points the Highlanders were unable to retain their first half lead.

NOTABLES

• Hargress' 20 points marked his 16th double-digit scoring effort of the season.
• Olabode's 10 rebounds is his new season high.

UP NEXT

•  UC Riverside will look to bounce back as they return home to face Hawai'i on Thursday, January 9th, with tip-off scheduled for 7:00 p.m.