ARCATA, Calif. -- The Cal Poly Humboldt men's basketball team secured its first victory in California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) play on Thursday night with an impressive 83-69 win over San Francisco State at Lumberjack Arena. The victory improves the Lumberjacks' overall record to 4-2, with a 1-1 mark in conference play, while San Francisco State falls to 3-5 and 1-1 in the CCAA.

In a performance that showcased both offensive firepower and balanced team play, Humboldt's high-octane offense, which ranks first in the CCAA averaging 82.7 points per game and first in field goal percentage (48.7%), was on full display. The Lumberjacks established a commanding lead early and never looked back, with their largest advantage reaching 26 points during the second half. The team posted two season-highs with 12 three-pointers made and 10 blocked shots on the defensive side of the ball. 

Key Highlights:

• Team Scoring: The Lumberjacks were led by sophomore guard Rob Diaz III, who scored a team-high 21 points, hitting 8-of-14 from the field and 5-of-8 from beyond the arc. Defensively, the guard posted a career-high three blocks. Junior guard Kalib LaCount contributed 17 points and 9 assists, including a perfect 4-of-4 from the free-throw line, while Josiah Sanders added 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

• Balanced Play: A total of 13 players saw action for Humboldt, with all 13 active players contributing to the win. This team-oriented effort was a testament to the depth and cohesion of the Lumberjacks' roster.

• Strong Shooting: Humboldt shot 44.9% from the field, including 12-of-27 from three-point range (44.4%). The team also capitalized on San Francisco State's turnovers, scoring 18 points off turnovers and contributing 15 fast-break points.

• Defensive Effort: While the offense stole the show, the defense was equally strong, limiting the Gators to 45.0% shooting, including just 5-of-13 from three-point range (38.5%). The 'Jacks created 18 points off of 13 Gator turnovers.

• Notable Stats: In addition to Diaz and LaCount, contributions came from Marsai Mason (9 points, 7 rebounds), Kyle Frelow (6 points on 60% shooting, 7 rebounds), and Cam Timmons (4 points and 5 rebounds in just 9 minutes of action)

"It was great to get our first conference win of the season," said head coach Chris Tifft. "I am proud of the guys and how they bounced back from a tough loss this past weekend. San Francisco State came ready to play and made a lot of shots early, but I thought we were able to speed up the game in the second half and play our style of basketball. Now we have to turn the page and get ready for East Bay on Saturday. They are a well coached team and played well in our arena last year."

Game Recap:

• Halftime Score: Cal Poly Humboldt 41, San Francisco State 35
• Final Score: Cal Poly Humboldt 83, San Francisco State 69

Humboldt's offense was as explosive as expected, scoring 42 points in the second half to seal the victory. Despite a strong performance by San Francisco State in the opening half, the Lumberjacks maintained control throughout, stretching their lead and outscoring the Gators 42-34 in the second period of play.

With the win, Cal Poly Humboldt moves forward with renewed confidence as they continue their CCAA campaign. The Lumberjacks will next face off against Cal State East Bay (1-5, 0-2 CCAA) on Saturday at 5:00 PM. 

It is Toys for Tots Night, meaning if you bring an unwrapped toy to support children in our community this holiday season, you will receive FREE admission to the games on Saturday, December 7. 

For more information on Cal Poly Humboldt men's basketball, please visit humboldtathletics.com, download our mobile app, and follow us on all social media platforms.