This year, the CSUN women’s basketball team is bouncing back from a record of 10-20 last season. As the Matadors begin the 2026-27 season, they look to make improvements within the Big West Conference, especially with the new members. With a few new players and many returning players, the Matadors look to make a change on both ends of the court.
Last season, the team finished in the Big West conference with a record of 6-14. The team came back at the end of their regular season and was able to attain a spot in the Big West Tournament as the No.8 seed.
They were matched against the Cal State Fullerton Titans in the first round. The Titans were placed at the No. 5 seed for the tournament. On March 11, 2026, the Matadors were unable to pull through and lost against Fullerton with a final score of 80-65, which ended their 2025-26 season.
Despite their shortcomings, the Matadors had a number of good assets to highlight. The team showed unwavering resilience and heart throughout the entire season.
They were successful in winning the last game of the regular season against Cal State Bakersfield with a score of 82-47. This win earned them a last-minute spot in the conference and showcased the team’s tremendous efforts.
Along with this, CSUN guard Rita Nazário carried the Matadors in scoring, earning an average of 10.4 points per game and serving as an offensive problem, draining 68 three-pointers at the end of the overall season. Forward Saray White also led the team in scoring, with 10.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.7 steals and 1.1 blocks per game. With these two dominant forces returning this season, the team is looking forward to continued resilience that will hopefully end in their success.
This season, the team is introducing a few new players as well as transfer students. They have also lost other major players this season; the experience of young players as well as new players is a huge change for the team. Considering their determination and fire to thrive as a team last year, it is likely that they will do the same this year despite these changes.
Overall, the team looks as though they are in good shape for a great season. As they approach their first home game on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, at Premier America Credit Union Arena, they plan to showcase all of their amazing talents as a team, including camaraderie and overall skill. Tip-off is at 6 p.m. and the match will be streamed on ESPN+.
