HAYWARD, Calif. – Cal State East Bay men's basketball player Jaayden Bush earned Tournament Most Valuable Player honors following a standout opening weekend in Lakeland, Florida, where the Pioneers defeated Oklahoma Baptist and Central Missouri to begin the 2026-27 season with a 2-0 record.

Bush played a key role in both victories, averaging 21.5 points, 6.5 steals, 3.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game while delivering the decisive points in the closing seconds of each contest.

In Saturday's season opener against Oklahoma Baptist, Bush led the Pioneers with 24 points on 9-for-16 shooting, including a 2-for-3 performance from beyond the arc. He also contributed five steals, four rebounds and two assists in East Bay's 69-67 victory.

With the game tied at 67-67, Bush connected on a game-winning jumper with three seconds remaining to lift the Pioneers past the Bison. The victory came in a rematch of last season's NCAA Division II Elite Eight matchup, where Oklahoma Baptist ended East Bay's postseason run.

Bush followed with another strong performance Sunday against Central Missouri, finishing with 19 points, eight steals, three assists and two rebounds. His defensive effort helped East Bay force 20 turnovers and generate 29 points off turnovers in the 64-62 victory.

After the Pioneers erased a 12-point second-half deficit, Bush once again delivered in the final moments. With the score tied at 62-62, he converted two free throws with three seconds remaining to secure East Bay's second consecutive two-point victory.

Across the two contests, Bush totaled 43 points, 13 steals, six rebounds and five assists while shooting 16-for-31 from the field. His performances helped the Pioneers open their campaign with consecutive victories and highlighted his impact on both ends of the floor.

East Bay will look to build on its undefeated opening weekend as the Pioneers continue their 2026-27 season.