ARCATA, Calif. — Cal Poly Humboldt women's basketball dropped a heartbreaking, buzzer-beating decision in overtime, falling 61-59 to Chico State in an action-packed CCAA Game of the Week on Thursday night inside Lumberjack Arena.
The Lumberjacks (10-5, 8-1 CCAA) suffered their first loss in conference play despite leading for much of the contest, while the Wildcats (13-2, 9-0 CCAA) remained unbeaten in league action after pulling out the dramatic overtime win in front of 468 fans.
Riley Sanz delivered a standout performance for Humboldt, recording the first double-double of her career with 16 points and a game-high 11 rebounds. The sophomore added three assists and two steals while logging 43 minutes in the tightly contested battle.
Humboldt came out firing in the opening quarter, jumping to a 20-7 lead behind efficient shooting and strong defensive pressure. The Jacks held Chico State to just 18.8 percent shooting in the first frame and carried a double-digit advantage into the second quarter.
The Wildcats chipped away before halftime and took control briefly in the third quarter, setting up a back-and-forth second half that featured six ties and nine lead changes. Humboldt responded in the fourth quarter, erasing deficits and forcing overtime after a defensive stand late in regulation.
In the extra period, both teams traded baskets until Chico State connected on the game-winner at the buzzer to seal the 61-59 decision.
Shade Satica finished with 13 points, six rebounds, and three steals, while Jada Barnes provided a spark off the bench with 11 points on 4-of-8 shooting. Jordyn Smith anchored the interior with 11 rebounds, two blocks, and six points.
As a team, Humboldt outscored Chico State 22-20 in the paint and forced 17 Wildcat turnovers, converting them into 19 points, but late execution ultimately proved the difference.
The Lumberjacks will look to bounce back quickly, as they head back to Chico for a Saturday rematch at 1:00 p.m. from Art Acker Gymnasium, continuing the pivotal CCAA series.
For more information on Cal Poly Humboldt women's basketball, visit humboldtathletics.com, download our mobile app on Apple iOS or Google Android, and follow the Lumberjacks on Instagram, Twitter/X, and Facebook.
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