ROHNERT PARK, Calif. – Cal Poly Humboldt hung tough in the first half but struggled to maintain momentum after halftime, falling to Sonoma State 89-78 in a CCAA matchup Thursday night at The Wolves' Den.

The Lumberjacks (7-7, 3-6 CCAA) trailed by just one point at the break, 41-40, following a competitive first half that featured 16 lead changes and three ties. However, Sonoma State (8-6, 4-4 CCAA) found its stride in the second half, shooting an impressive 62.5% from the field to pull away for the win.

Rob Diaz III and Marsai Mason shined for the Lumberjacks, contributing key performances on the road. Diaz led the team with 18 points, knocking down 4-of-7 from beyond the arc while adding four rebounds and a steal. Mason provided a dominant presence in the paint, scoring 16 points on 8-of-14 shooting and pulling down a team-high nine rebounds.

Despite a strong shooting performance in the first half (57.1% FG), Humboldt struggled to maintain its efficiency after the break, converting just 37.8% of its field goals and 22.2% of its three-point attempts. The Seawolves capitalized on their opportunities, shooting a scorching 59.2% from the field and an impressive 87.0% from the free-throw line for the game.

Josiah Sanders added 13 points for the Lumberjacks, while Kalib LaCount tallied 10 points and five assists. Humboldt's bench contributed 29 points, including nine from Aidan Fowler and four from Court Franklin.

Sonoma State was led by Chris Holley and Julian Bryant, who each scored 20 points. Holley added eight assists, while Bryant was a perfect 8-for-8 from the charity stripe.

The Lumberjacks will look to bounce back when they return to action on Saturday, January 18, facing Cal State San Marcos (1-13, 1-7 CCAA) on the road. Tipoff is set for 3:00 p.m.

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.