In an interview prior to the 2017–18 season, Chico State women's basketball head coach Brian Fogel described freshman guard Shay Stark as "amazingly quick, and at her best when she's in the open court. She can attack the basket and is a dynamite passer. Shay could be a big presence in what we're doing as we get into January."
As Cal Poly Pomona can attest, Stark had all of those attributes on display last Saturday, providing the Wildcats with a well-timed spark—and a career-high 15 points—in a huge 71-59 conference victory over the Broncos. Stark's biggest game of her young Chico State career makes her the latest Wildcat of the Week.
Stark hit six of seven shots—including 2-of-3 from 3-point range—on the way to her career-high night. She also added four rebounds, three assists and a steal as the Wildcats avenged an early-season loss to Pomona, improved to 10-6 overall and moved to 8-4 in California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) play.
Stark made her first significant contribution just before intermission, draining a 3-pointer to give Chico State a 38-34 halftime lead. In the third quarter the Stockton product helped the 'Cats take the lead for good, posting seven points and using her speed to fuel numerous fast breaks that led to Chico State scores.
Stark and the Wildcats are at Acker Gym this Saturday to host Humboldt State in another big CCAA contest. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
