ARCATA, Calif. – In a game that had all the makings of a thriller, a controversial blocking foul call with 10 seconds remaining sent shockwaves through Lumberjack Arena as Cal Poly Humboldt fell in a heartbreaking 65-62 decision to Stanislaus State on Saturday night. The loss snapped the Lumberjacks' six-game win streak and moved them to 13-8 overall and 9-7 in CCAA play.
Humboldt controlled much of the first half, leading by as many as 10 points before taking a 33-26 advantage into the break. Marsai Mason led the offensive charge, pouring in 18 points on an efficient 6-for-10 shooting, including a perfect 4-for-4 from beyond the arc. Rob Diaz III added 14 points, knocking down all four of his free throw attempts, while Kalib LaCount contributed 12 points and a team-high seven assists.
The Warriors (10-12, 7-9 CCAA) clawed back in the second half behind the dominant performance of Jeremiah Jones, who posted a game-high 23 points on 8-for-17 shooting. Stanislaus State shot a blistering 57.1% from the field in the second half, erasing Humboldt's lead and setting up a dramatic final minute.
With the score tied at 62-62 and under 15 seconds to play, a contested drive by Jones resulted in a blocking foul that sent him to the free-throw line, much to the disbelief of the Lumberjack faithful. Jones calmly sank both free throws to give Stanislaus State the lead. A last-second attempt by the Lumberjacks came up short, sealing the Warriors' narrow victory.
Despite the loss, Humboldt showed grit, forcing 13 turnovers and recording six steals. The Lumberjacks also held a 14-3 advantage in fast break points and converted a 77.3% clip from the free-throw line, while Stanislaus posted a 78.5% night from the charity stripe.
The Lumberjacks will aim to bounce back as they hit the road for four straight games, which begins with a pivotal CCAA matchup at Cal State East Bay (10-12, 8-8 CCAA), who is one game behind the Jacks in the CCAA standings. Tip-off is set for Thursday at 7:30 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.