FULLERTON, Calif. — The Highlanders traded punches with Cal State Fullerton deep into the second half Thursday night, but a late surge at the free-throw line lifted the Titans to a 78-72 win at Titan Gym.

The Highlanders got out fast, opening on a 15-0 run in the first four minutes. Marqui Worthy Jr. fueled the early momentum and finished with 18 points, while Andrew Henderson added 19 points and a team-high three steals.

Fullerton settled in and chipped away throughout the half, closing on top 38-37 at the break. The teams stayed locked in a one- to two-possession game for long stretches after halftime, with eight ties and five lead changes overall.

UC Riverside briefly regained control midway through the second half, taking a 61-55 lead on back-to-back 3-pointers from Worthy with 10:54 remaining. The Titans answered immediately and pulled even at 63-63, then used a decisive stretch in the final six minutes to move in front for good.

Grady scored nine points off the bench for UC Riverside. De'Undrae Perteete Jr. chipped in eight points, and BJ Kolly also scored eight while adding two blocks. Worthy closed out his stat line with eight rebounds and added four assists and two steals.

The Highlanders finished with a 36-30 rebounding edge, but Fullerton's advantage at the foul line proved the difference in a game that stayed tight into the final minute.

UC Riverside continues on the road this Saturday, February 7th as they take on Cal State Northridge with an early 1pm tip-off.