ARCATA, Calif. – When the Lumberjacks needed a little magic, they knew where to turn. Freshman Amari Green got the ball in the closing seconds of Saturday's home game and sank the game-winning basket to lead the Humboldt State men's basketball team past No. 13 UC San Diego.

"It was such a rollercoaster from Thursday's game to tonight's victory," said HSU Head Coach Steve Kinder. "I am so proud of how the guys refocused so quickly and came out and played a tremendous game. It was a game that really brought these fans together and gave them something to look forward to in February, and we're thinking March."

The Green and Gold rebounded from a disappointing performance Thursday night versus Cal State San Marcos with a thrilling win in front of a rowdy home crowd Saturday. HSU improved to 15-7 overall and 9-5 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association after dealing UC San Diego just its second conference loss of the season.

HSU built an early advantage and led for a majority of the first half. A Calvin Young II tip-in gave the home team a 13-9 edge with 10:25 on the clock, but the Tritons answered with consecutive 3-pointers to take the lead. Kameron Curl splashed a long distance basket to get the Green and Gold back on track and begin a 13-2 run that ended with HSU on top 26-17. San Diego ended the half strong and Tyrell Robert connected on a last-second trey to make it 32-29 in favor of the Jacks at the half.

Both teams shot over 50 percent from the field in a back and forth second half that ended with Green's game-winner. The Tritons used an improved offensive attack to even the game at 49-all with a Scott Everman 3-pointer at the 9:42 mark. The two teams traded the lead over the next two minutes with the home team going back in front, 53-51, with a Young layup. HSU stretched its advantage to as many as four points twice in the game's closing minutes. However, San Diego sharpshooters kept the visitors within striking distance. Christian Bayne connected on a 3-pointer and followed it up with a jumper to even the game at 65-65 with 50 seconds left before Green knocked down the game-winning shot.

"This is a very special team, and I can't do anything without them," said Green. "Even if I screw up, they pick me back up. Two game-winners, there is nothing like it. Without this team, I wouldn't be able to do it."

Everett led HSU with 22 points and was joined by Young (12) and Green (10) as the team's double-digit scorers. Young also grabbed a team-best 13 rebounds. The Jacks shot 50 percent from the field in the victory and won the rebounding battle 34-26.

HSU travels to face rival Chico State next Saturday in Art Acker Gymnasium. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.