ARCATA, Calif. – Cal Poly Humboldt's men's basketball team fought hard but ultimately fell short to Cal State East Bay, 81-76, in a closely contested California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) game on Thursday evening at Lumberjack Arena. The loss drops the Lumberjacks to 4-3 on the season and 1-2 in CCAA play.
Despite the defeat, Humboldt's Josiah Sanders had a standout performance, scoring a career-high 24 points. Sanders, a key player for the Lumberjacks, shot 9-14 from the field, including 4-6 from beyond the arc, and added 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal. His impressive performance wasn't enough to overcome a late surge from the visiting Pioneers.
The game saw several lead changes and was tied five times, with both teams showing resilience. Humboldt entered halftime with a 36-32 lead, thanks to solid play from Sanders, Kalib LaCount (14 points), and Rob Diaz III (14 points). LaCount added four assists and grabbed three rebounds, while Diaz contributed five rebounds and three assists. The Lumberjacks shot 44.8 percent from the field in the first half, including 57.1 percent from three-point range, but struggled in the second half as Cal State East Bay outscored them 49-40. Cal State East Bay shot 51.8 percent from the field overall, including a 42.1 percent from beyond the arc. The Pioneers were able to rally in the final minutes after the 'Jacks cut the lead to just two points, but ultimately held on for their first CCAA win.
The Pioneers were led by Beril Kabamba, who scored 23 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Tyree Campbell also contributed 16 points, while Payden White added 10 points.
Cal Poly Humboldt had a solid performance from its bench, contributing 14 points, but was outscored in the paint 40-32 and struggled with turnovers, as they surrendered 23 points off turnovers to East Bay.
The Lumberjacks will be back in action next Saturday, December 14, when they head to Chico State in an early-season rematch at Art Acker Gymnasium. Tip-off is set for 3:00 PM.
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.
