ROHNERT PARK, Calif. - The Cal State East Bay men's basketball team showcased a comeback in a hard-fought 80-73 road win against Sonoma State on Thursday evening at The Wolves' Den. The victory marks the Pioneers' third straight win in CCAA action.
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GAME SUMMARY |
The contest remained tight throughout, with neither team able to build a substantial lead in the first half. Sonoma State took a slim 34-31 lead into the break.
The Seawolves maintained their momentum early in the second half, extending their lead to as many as six points. But the Pioneers' determination shone through as they mounted a comeback. A crucial 3-pointer by Ramsey Huff at the 9:03 mark of the second half sparked a 15-4 run, capped off by a 3-pointer from Jordan Espinoza that gave East Bay a 70-62 lead.
Although Sonoma State climbed back to within four points down the stretch, clutch baskets and free throws by Huff and Espinoza iced the game, securing the 80-73 victory for the Pioneers.
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NOTABLE STATS |
- Espinoza led all scorers with a season-high 18 points, showcasing his efficiency by going 6-for-9 from the floor and a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. He also had one block and a pair of steals.
- Tyree Campbell and Huff also contributed significantly, scoring 17 and 14 points respectively.
- Beril Kabamba dominated the glass, pulling down a team-high nine rebounds.
- East Bay's sharpshooting in the second half proved crucial, as they went 6-for-10 from beyond the arc after the break.
- The Pioneers shot 53.4 percent from the floor to Sonoma State's 47.9 percent.
- East Bay had a 32-28 advantage in rebounds.
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POSTGAME QUOTES |
Cal State East Bay head coach Bryan Rooney following Thursday's win:
"It was a great college basketball atmosphere tonight. We have a tremendous amount of respect for Sonoma's program and it's always a battle when we play. I was very proud of our ability to stay in the moment."
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RECORDS |
Cal State East Bay: 10-11, 8-7 CCAA
Sonoma State: 9-11, 5-9 CCAA
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UP NEXT FOR CAL STATE EAST BAY |
The Pioneers will look to extend their winning streak as they face Cal State San Marcos in their next CCAA game on Saturday, February 8. Tipoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. at The Sports Center in San Marcos, California. East Bay will be seeking revenge after a narrow 68-66 loss to the Cougars on January 2.
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