California Baptist University
Harvard University
CBU Finalizes the Wildcat Invite Against #8 Harvard
2/8/2026 6:31:00 AM | Women's Water Polo
VILLANOVA, PA--- The California Baptist University women's water polo team closed out the Wildcat Invite on Sunday morning with its toughest test of the season as they matched up with #8 Harvard. The Lancer hung in early, but the Crimson would ultimately defeat them 15-9 behind a strong second half.
Harvard was the highest-ranked opponent the Lancers have faced this season, and the fourth top-15 opponent. The loss for CBU made it an even tournament at 2-2 and brought their record to 7-4 through the opening portion of the season.
The Crimson fired away early, racking up three quick goals compared to just one for CBU. The Lancers responded with three straight goals of their own, finalized by a strike from Morgan Gates that tied the match at three apiece after the opening eight minutes. CBU's offense struggles in the second period, scoring its first goal nearly five minutes into the period. Harvard would meanwhile convert four goals in the period, leading 7-5 at the half.
Harvard distanced itself a bit more in the third period, scoring five goals in the frame, including one as time expired, to lead 12-8 after three periods. Harvard would expand its lead further in the fourth period, outscoring the Lancers 3-1 as they would finalize a 15-9 victory.
Emmie Ramirez would collect her fourth hat trick of the tournament with three goals, while Delilah Moreno would have two to lead the Lancer offense. Gates, Bailey Rosa, and Niya Bumbaca would be the other goal scorers for CBU.
NEXT: The Lancers will open conference play on Saturday, February 14, against San Diego State at home in Riverside.
