ROHNERT PARK - Humboldt rang in the New Year with another victory, defeating Sonoma State 61-56, in a late-game thriller.
The win extends the Jacks' winning streak to five games, winning three consecutively on the road.
The Jacks advance to 3-3 in California Collegiate Athletic Association conference play while Sonoma State falls, 2-4.
“A win on the road in conference is always a good thing,” said HSU head coach Joddie Gleason. “We did a nice job of pulling this one out and making key shots,” Gleason added.
It was a fight to the final buzzer for the visiting Jacks. With under minute in the game the Seawolves inched within four points of the Jacks. Humboldt had extended their lead to a game-high 12 points with just five minutes to play but let it slowly slip to the determined Seawolves.
The Jacks continue to struggle in the early minutes of play, remaining scoreless in the first five minutes of the first half. Humboldt allowed Sonoma State to score five unanswered points.
Humboldt opened the second half similar to the first, allowing the Seawolves to take the lead with five unanswered points. But the fighting Jacks bounced back with a seven point run. They held the lead but not without giving Sonoma State a look at the win.
The Humboldt bench was able provide spark to the struggling offense, combining for 40 of the total points. The Jacks saw movement and energy off the bench from guard Patice Saidon and Lisa Petty, who continues to provide Humboldt with big numbers. Jeanette DeWitt and Petty each added 14 points for the Jacks.
“Patrice and Lisa did a real nice job in the first half,” commented Gleason. “Patrice had great movement and gave us three assists early,” added Gleason.
The Jacks held all but one player to double-digits scoring. Forward Aly Conway added 14 points for the Seawolves.
Humboldt will return home for two weeks of play at Lumberjack Arena. The Jacks will host Cal State San Bernardino on Thursday in the first game of four. Tip-off is 5:30 pm with the men's game immediately following.
