CHICO, Calif. – An efficient offensive performance and a strong rebounding effort helped Chico State deal Humboldt State its second straight road loss, 96-73, Friday night in Acker Gymnasium.
"Chico State came out tonight and did a great job offensively and defensively," said Head Coach
Steve Kinder. "They made stops early and attacked us in the paint. They were a well-prepared and deep team. At times tonight we showed heart and fight and played like this was the rivalry game that we came here for. Now we have to prepare for tomorrow as we head down the road to face Stanislaus State."
HSU slipped to 6-3 overall and 1-2 in California Collegiate Athletic Association play. The Wildcats improved to 8-2 and 2-1 against conference opponents.
The teams traded baskets in the first five minutes, but a 28-10 run by the Wildcats put them firmly in the lead. Chico State led 33-15 with 7:35 remaining before intermission and proceeded to outmuscle the North Coast squad as the half came to a close.
Chico State outrebounded HSU 30-13 in the first half, and the home team held a 55-31 advantage at intermission.
Jack Kaub scored a team-high seven points and grabbed four rebounds for the Green and Gold before the break.
The Jacks pulled within 16 points twice in the final 20 minutes, but were unable to overcome their deficit.
Calvin Young II notched his second straight double-double with a 13 points and a team-high 10 rebounds.
Colin Caslick matched Young's scoring total, and he scored nine of his 13 points in the second half.
HSU committed a season-high 30 fouls, and
Malik Morgan and Kaub both fouled out.
The Green and Gold shot 44.3 percent from the field and 30.4 percent from outside the arc. HSU connected on 12-of-29 free-throw opportunities.
Chico State's Jalen McFerren led all scorers with 21 points on 5-of-9 shooting. McFerren sank four of the Wildcats' six 3-point field goals. He also finished the game with a team-high 13 rebounds.
HSU won't be able to focus on Friday's setback for long as they travel to face Stanislaus State Saturday night in Turlock, Calif. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
