Stanford Cardinal picked up win over the Cal Poly Mustangs at Maples Pavilion on Fri Nov 18. 2022 (@StanfordMBB photo)

By Michael Roberson

STANFORD, Cal.– The Stanford Cardinal (2-2) was able to corral the Cal Poly Mustangs (1-2) inside the friendly confines of Maples Pavilion, 80-43.

Stanford got off to a TREEmendous start with a 19-0 run to start the game. Cal Poly was held scoreless for a little over seven minutes (7:09), and finally got off the goose egg on a corner 3 right in front of Stanford’s bench.

The Cardinal’s defense was really intense the first 30 minutes, forcing 12 turnovers, as well as their prolific offense, posting a lead as high as 30 points, with 10 3-pointers.

Senior guard Michael Jones, who was held scoreless last game in a Cardinal loss to San Diego State, came out like gangbusters in the first half with a midway game-high 12 points. His junior forward teammate Max Murrell also tallied 12 points at intermission. Stanford held a 28-point advantage at the half, 47-19.

Stanford increased the scoring margin immediately in the second stanza and got it as high as 39 late in half number two. When the scoreboard reached :00, the Cardinal won the game by a whopping 37 points, 80-43.

The Cardinal was led in scoring by Michael Jones and Max Murrell with 15 points each, while senior guard Trevon Taylor paced the Mustangs with 12 points.

Stanford will next be in action in Orlando, Florida at ESPN Wide World of Sports tournament against Ole Miss November 24, and next facing either Florida State or Siena the 25th and 27th. Cal Poly will host Mount St. Mary’s Sunday, November 20.