RIVERSIDE, Calif. -- Dikymbe Martin had 20 points with eight rebounds and six assists and UC Riverside led throughout to beat Cal Poly 72-63 on Thursday night to secure a spot in the Big West Conference Tournament beginning March 8.

Martin, who had eight points in the final minute, made 10 of 11 from the line. Chance Murray drained 5 of 10 from long range to total 17 points and Alex Larsson added 16 for the Highlanders (9-20, 4-11).

The Highlanders had a 34-26 halftime advantage and pushed their lead to 60-48 but could never break free of Cal Poly as Victor Joseph nailed a 3 and Luke Meikle followed with two free throws to cut the deficit to 66-62 with :18 remaining. Martin made eight free throws down the stretch to seal the victory.

Jakub Niziol led the Mustangs (9-20, 4-11) with 15 points. Donovan Fields and Meikle added 14 points apiece.