The Chico State men’s basketball team’s quest to hold three straight opponents to fewer than 40 points came to an end, but the Wildcats’ perfect start to the season continues thanks to a 73-49 win against Menlo Tuesday night at Acker Gym. The Wildcats (4-0) allowed just 17 points through the first 23 minutes of the game, but gave up 32 over the final 17.
Every Chico State player saw at least six minutes of action and no one played more than 21. Every Wildcat contributed as well, providing at least two points, rebounds or assists. Freshman Jordan Semple filled the stat sheet during his 16 minutes off the bench with 14 points, five rebounds, three steals and a
blocked shot. He even fouled out. Jason Conrad contributed 11 points, six rebounds and a pair of blocks. Amir Carraway finished with nine points, four rebounds and two steals.
Chico State is now 4-0 for the second straight season. But the Wildcats are ready to re-focus with their California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) opener at San Francisco State set for Thursday, Dec. 1.
Chico State struggled to leave the visiting Oaks behind early on (pun intended). But the Wildcats scored the last 11 points of the first half and the first five in the second to take complete control. They never led by fewer than 22 from that point on.
The last five-plus minutes of the first half provided a perfect picture of the Wildcats’ night as five different players scored during the run. Carraway contributed a layup, Sims scored a pair of free throws, Conrad converted on a nice dish from Sims, Josh Jackson tipped home a missed 3-pointer, and Semple sank a 3-pointer to make it 34-15 at the half.
The Wildcats’ highlight of the night came during a 10-0 early in the second half. Conrad blocked a shot that was secured by Jay Flores. The 7-footer ran the floor as Flores attacked with a dribble and delivered a long pass to Sean Park near the far block. Park caught it and dropped a dime to Conrad for a two-hand flush and the foul. He sank the free throw and James Staniland’s 3-pointer on their next possession gave the Wildcats a 49-17 lead with 13:28 remaining. They led by 32 on five different occasions before Menlo finished the game on a 17-10 run.
Cyleb Burton scored 12 of Menlo’s first 15 points and finished with a game-high 15. ChaRunn Jones chipped in 12.
BOX SCORE
