ARCATA, Calif. — Wayne Hampton III drilled a buzzer-beating jumper as time expired to cap a thrilling back-and-forth battle, lifting Cal Poly Humboldt to an 80–78 victory over Cal State San Bernardino for their fourth straight win on Saturday afternoon inside Lumberjack Arena.
The game lived up to the drama from start to finish, featuring nine ties and eight lead changes, with neither team able to create meaningful separation. Hampton's game-winner was the final swing in a contest that wasn't decided until the horn sounded, sending the Lumberjack crowd of 500-plus into a frenzy.
Cal Poly Humboldt (11-7, 9-3 CCAA) led 42–37 at halftime after shooting 50 percent from the field and knocking down six three-pointers in the opening 20 minutes. The Coyotes (9-10, 6-6 CCAA) responded with a strong second half, shooting over 53 percent after the break and repeatedly answering Humboldt runs to keep the game within a possession down the stretch.
With the score tied late, Humboldt worked the ball into Hampton's hands, and the junior guard delivered, rising up as the clock expired to seal the win.
Hampton finished with 17 points, four rebounds, four assists, and two steals, leading a balanced Lumberjack attack. Zaveion Bineyard added 13 points and six rebounds, while Rob Jenkins chipped in 12 points, four rebounds, and three assists. Tyriq McNeal provided an efficient spark off the bench, scoring 10 points on 4-for-5 shooting, and Shakir Odunewu contributed nine points and four boards.
Humboldt shot 52.2 percent from the field and 50 percent from three-point range (9-for-18), overcoming a tough night at the free-throw line. The Lumberjacks also got key bench production, scoring 29 points in a tightly contested matchup.
Cal State San Bernardino was led by Gavin Davis, who scored a game-high 19 points, while Zion Paleo added 18 points off the bench. The Coyotes held a rebounding edge and capitalized on second-chance opportunities, but Hampton's final shot proved to be the difference.
With the win, Cal Poly Humboldt strengthens its hold near the top of the CCAA standings, sitting tied for second place with Cal State Dominguez Hills. The Lumberjacks will look to carry the momentum forward as they hit the road for four games beginning next Thursday at Cal State Los Angeles.
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