SAN MARCOS, Calif. – Cal Poly Humboldt stormed into the CCAA Tournament semifinals with a commanding 70-52 victory over Cal Poly Pomona (18-11, 13-9 CCAA) on Thursday night, marking the Lumberjacks' fourth consecutive win and their first postseason victory since 2016.
The Jacks (18-10, 13-9 CCAA) have now won 11 of their last 14 games and, for the first time since 2011, defeated the Broncos twice in the same season. With the win, Humboldt advances to face No. 1 seed Cal State Dominguez Hills tomorrow (Friday, March 7) at 2:30 p.m.
Statement Victory
From the opening tip, Humboldt set the tone with a high-energy performance, taking a 38-26 lead into halftime and never looking back. The Lumberjacks' offense was fueled by an efficient night from the field, shooting 49.1% overall and 38.1% from three-point range.
Rob Diaz III was unstoppable, leading all scorers with 24 points on 10-of-15 shooting while adding three assists and three rebounds. Marsai Mason dominated in the paint, posting his fifth double-double of the season with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Kalib LaCount added 15 points and five assists, while Aidan Fowler contributed seven points and four assists. Josiah Sanders provided steady play with six points, four rebounds, and three blocks.
Defensive Excellence
The Jacks' defensive effort stifled Pomona, holding the Broncos to just 31.8% shooting from the field and 21.4% from beyond the arc. Humboldt also forced 13 turnovers while grabbing eight steals and blocking seven shots. The 52 points allowed on Thursday to Pomona is the lowest number of points an opponent has scored against the Lumberjacks this season and lowest point total by an opponent since January 2023.
Up Next
With momentum on their side, Humboldt will now take on top-seeded Cal State Dominguez Hills (23-5, 20-2 CCAA) in the semifinals. Tip-off is set for 2:30 p.m. on Friday, March 7, at The Sports Center in San Marcos, California.
The Jacks are just two wins away from capturing their third CCAA Tournament title, and after breaking their postseason drought, they'll look to keep their championship aspirations alive. Humboldt split the season series with Dominguez Hills and were one of only two CCAA teams (Chico State being the other) to defeat the Toros this year in conference play.
All CCAA Tournament Information can be found here: Click here
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.
