CHICO, Calif. – The Chico State men's basketball team pulled off an incredible 83-81 comeback victory over Cal Poly Pomona on Thursday night at home. The game came down to the wire, with Miles Daniels securing the win by blocking a potential game-winning three-pointer from the Broncos in the final seconds. Trailing by six with just 1:40 left in regulation, The Wildcats mounted an 8-2 run fueled by JoJo Murphy, who scored all eight points, including a clutch game-tying three-pointer with 21 seconds remaining to force overtime.
Chico State extends its win streak to 10 games, improving to a remarkable 11-2 overall and remaining undefeated in CCAA play with a 7-0 conference record. Meanwhile, Cal Poly Pomona suffered their fifth loss of the season, falling to 8-5 overall and 3-4 in conference play.
The visitors pulled out to a quick 7-0 run in the game's opening minutes, with the Wildcats struggling to break through a solid Broncos defense. Chico State began chipping away at the quick lead behind shots from Jojo Murphy. But the true shift in the half started when freshman Cortevious Taylor stepped on the court and began to take control of the offense with 15 points in the first half to keep the 'Cats in the hunt at the half.
The Broncos controlled much of the game, but the Wildcats' hot shooting and tenacious defense sparked a late rally, sending the game to overtime and ultimately securing the victory. Chico State connected on four of their final five shots from the field in regulation, while their defense stepped up in overtime, forcing four critical turnovers and 1-5 shooting from the Broncos to pull out the win.
Murphy notched his eighth 20-point game of the season, finishing with 28 points, his second-highest total of the season. Cortevious Taylor provided his crucial 15 points and six rebounds off the bench, while Daniels made an impact across the board, recording 10 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and four blocks, including the game saving stop.
Acker Gym has become a true fortress this season, with the Wildcats boasting an unbeaten 7-0 home record. The Chico State men's basketball team will next host Cal State Bernardino, fresh off a narrow 77-80 loss against Cal Poly Humbolt, on January 11. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. in Acker Gym.
