ARCATA - The Humboldt State women's basketball team fell Thursday night at home to Cal State San Bernardino, 69-62. The closely matched California Collegiate Athletic Association game marked the first loss for the Jacks in six games. Humboldt falls to 3-4 while the Coyotes improve to 4-1 in CCAA play.
It was not the homecoming the Jacks were hoping for after going on a 5-0 winning streak, three being on the road. The Jacks outscored the Coyotes in the second half but it was not enough to claim the victory.
“Its tough to withstand that momentum,” said HSU head coach, Joddie Gleason. “We got within one but it was challenge to get over that hump, at the end, and take the lead,” she added.
A layup by Jenna Hamilton got the Jacks within one point with six minutes to play but the margin quickly slipped to, as many as, ten. Humboldt trailed the Coyotes in not only points but also rebounds, which they felt is the reason for the loss at Lumberjack Arena.
“What killed us is they were getting the offensive board,” said junior forward Bree Halsey. “They would get a board or we would turn it over,” she added.
The Jacks continue to see strong play from Lisa Petty who also earned a starting spot for the first time this season. Lisa recorded 20 points for Humboldt, earning 16 points of her points in the first half. Halsey's second half helped lift the Jacks within reaching distance of the Coyotes, recording 11 of her 13 points during that time.
“Lisa has had a good games this last week so we wanted to reward her,” commented Gleason in regards to the lineup change. “Bree did a good job of stepping up in the second half,” she added.
Humboldt will look to redeem themselves on Saturday night in another tough battle against Cal Poly Pomona. Tip-off is at 5:30 pm at Lumberjack Arena.
