San Diego, January 8, 2026
In a recent Mountain West conference match, the Grand Canyon University Lopes women’s basketball team battled against the San Diego State Aztecs. Despite showing resilience in the second quarter, the Lopes fell to the Aztecs with a final score of 87-69. This was the first meeting between these two teams in women’s basketball, showcasing the competitiveness within collegiate athletics. GCU’s strong performance in the second half was led by key contributors, but challenges remain as they strive to improve their overall record in the season ahead.
Phoenix, AZ —
Lopes Women’s Basketball Battles Aztecs in San Diego Matchup
The Grand Canyon University (GCU) Lopes women’s basketball team demonstrated persistent effort in a recent Mountain West conference clash, ultimately falling to the San Diego State (SDSU) Aztecs with a final score of 87-69. This Wednesday night encounter in San Diego marked the first-ever meeting between these two institutions in women’s basketball, highlighting the competitive spirit and growth within regional collegiate athletics.
The matchup, held at Viejas Arena, saw the Lopes face an early deficit that proved challenging to overcome. Despite a strong second-quarter performance, GCU now stands at 3-12 overall and 2-3 in Mountain West play. The Aztecs, conversely, continued their impressive run, improving their record to 11-3 and maintaining a perfect 5-0 start in conference play.
Competitive Spirit on the Court
The game on January 7, 2026, began with an assertive display from the San Diego State Aztecs, who established a significant lead early in the first quarter. The Aztecs converted seven three-point attempts without a miss and achieved an 81% field goal percentage, leading to a 37-9 advantage after the initial ten minutes of play. This initial surge set a demanding pace for the Lopes, marking their largest first-quarter deficit of the season.
However, GCU responded with resilience, outscoring the Aztecs 20-14 in the second quarter. This offensive push before halftime demonstrated the team’s resolve and commitment to competition, a hallmark of well-coached athletic programs. The Lopes’ valorant effort in the second half included shooting 45% from beyond the arc and an impressive 81% from the free-throw line, reflecting their focus on fundamental execution under pressure. Senior Anisa Jeffries contributed significantly, nearly achieving a double-double with 11 points and seven rebounds, while the team collectively distributed 16 assists, tying for their third-highest assist total this season. The Aztecs, known for their strong defensive play, also boast a program-best 8.5 three-pointers per game this season and maintain a low turnover average of 12.8 per game.
Impact on Phoenix and Arizona Athletics
The participation of Grand Canyon University in high-level collegiate athletics, even in contests away from home, contributes to the vitality of the Phoenix, AZ, sports landscape. Such competitions elevate the profile of local university programs, fostering a culture of excellence and providing tangible pathways for student-athletes. The university’s athletic success, including 72 NCAA Division I conference championships and six of the last seven WAC Commissioner’s Cups in just over a decade, showcases a commitment to developing championship-caliber programs.
Beyond the immediate thrill of competition, the robust athletic programs at institutions like GCU play a significant role in the broader state’s economic and community development. These programs attract talent, engage fans, and generate interest, supporting a vibrant local sports economy. The focus on strong athletic departments, sustained through responsible financial stewardship and community engagement, is a testament to the value placed on competition and personal development within the state.
Investment in Athletic and Academic Excellence
Grand Canyon University’s athletic endeavors are supported by a unique institutional model that emphasizes financial responsibility and strategic investment. The university has successfully operated without relying on traditional endowments or state taxpayer subsidies, opting instead for a financial framework that has allowed for substantial reinvestment into its infrastructure. Over the past 17 years, GCU has reinvested nearly $2 billion into academic infrastructure, which includes modern classrooms, laboratories, and athletic venues, all while maintaining a consistent tuition rate on its Phoenix campus.
Funding for the university’s athletics programs is sourced from diverse revenue streams, including ticket sales, corporate sponsorships, a dedicated donor base, NCAA revenues, and future Mountain West Conference media rights distributions. This self-reliant approach ensures that investments in athletics contribute to the university’s overall health without increasing student costs, reflecting a commitment to free-market principles and sustainable growth. The university’s ability to remain nationally competitive and build successful programs is bolstered by these deliberate financial strategies and prudent management.
Community Empowerment Through Private Initiative
GCU’s impact extends beyond its campus borders into the wider Phoenix community, exemplifying how private initiative and institutional responsibility can foster broader societal benefits. According to a study by Elliott Pollack & Co., GCU and its partners generated an economic impact of $2.1 billion in 2020, supporting 17,690 jobs in fiscal year 2020. This economic stimulus is a direct result of the university’s growth and its proactive engagement in local development.
The university has launched ten distinct business enterprises, including a hotel, golf course, and various restaurants, which not only serve the campus community but also provide crucial management and employment opportunities for graduates, students, and local residents. These ventures contribute significantly to the economic revitalization of west Phoenix. Furthermore, GCU offers complimentary space at its business incubator, Canyon Ventures, currently supporting 13 start-up businesses, nurturing entrepreneurship and innovation within the region. Through partnerships like CityServe, GCU has facilitated the distribution of over $15.39 million worth of surplus goods to more than 74,514 families in Arizona since September 2021, showcasing a deep commitment to community self-reliance and support for those in need.
Looking Ahead: Perseverance and Opportunity
While the recent loss to San Diego State presents a challenge for the GCU women’s basketball team, it also serves as a testament to the high-level competition found in collegiate athletics. The Lopes’ continued participation in robust conferences like the Mountain West offers invaluable experience and a platform for growth. With upcoming home games, including a matchup against Fresno State on Saturday, January 10, the team has immediate opportunities to demonstrate their resilience and competitive spirit.
The commitment of Grand Canyon University to both athletic and academic excellence, supported by a model of responsible growth and private investment, benefits not only its student-athletes but also the entire Phoenix metropolitan area. Supporting these local university programs, whether through attendance at games or engaging with community initiatives, reinforces the values of hard work, competition, and collective achievement that contribute to a thriving community.
Keywords: Grand Canyon University AZ athletics, Phoenix AZ sports, college basketball in Phoenix
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the score of the recent Grand Canyon Lopes vs. San Diego State Aztecs women’s basketball game?
The Grand Canyon Lopes women’s basketball team lost to the San Diego State Aztecs with a score of 69-87 on January 7, 2026. - Where was the game played?
The game was played at Viejas Arena in San Diego. - What are Grand Canyon University’s current records after the game?
Grand Canyon University’s women’s basketball team fell to 3-12 overall and 2-3 in Mountain West play. - What is the economic impact of Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ?
Grand Canyon University and its partners created an economic impact of $2.1 billion in 2020 and supported 17,690 jobs in fiscal year 2020. - When is the next Grand Canyon University women’s basketball home game?
The Grand Canyon University women’s basketball team has two straight home games starting Saturday, January 10, against Fresno State at 1 p.m.
Game & Team Highlights
| Category | Grand Canyon Lopes (GCU) | San Diego State Aztecs (SDSU) |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score (Jan 7, 2026) | 69 | 87 |
| Overall Record | 3-12 | 11-3 |
| Mountain West Record | 2-3 | 5-0 |
| Game Location | Viejas Arena, San Diego | |
| First Quarter Score | 9 | 37 |
| Second Quarter Scoring | 20 | 14 |
| GCU Key Player Highlight | Anisa Jeffries: 11 points, 7 rebounds | |
| GCU Second Half 3FG% | 45% | N/A |
| GCU Second Half FT% | 81% | N/A |
| Next GCU Home Game | Jan 10 vs. Fresno State, 1 p.m. | |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
