CHICO, Calif. – Thursday night featured a showdown between the two top teams in the CCAA, both undefeated in conference play. Entering the game, the Chico State men's basketball team boasted a 13-game winning streak, while Cal State Dominguez Hills carried a 12-game winning streak of their own. Despite a strong 19-point performance from Isaiah Kerr, the Wildcats fell short as the Toros emerged victorious.  

The Wildcats suffered just their third loss of the season, dropping to 14-3 overall and 10-1 in CCAA play, marking their first conference defeat of the year. With the win, Cal State Dominguez Hills takes sole possession of first place in the CCAA standings, improving to 14-3 overall and remaining perfect in conference play at 11-0.  

Chico State struggled offensively throughout the game, but Kerr provided a bright spot with 19 points on 50 percent shooting and three assists. Cortevious Taylor brought valuable energy to the floor, contributing a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds against a formidable Toros squad.  

The Toros came out firing, opening the game with a 7-0 run, but the Wildcats quickly responded to keep it competitive, heading into halftime down 22-29. 

In the second half, the Toros began to pull away, led by forward Adam Afifi, who delivered an impressive performance with 16 points and nine rebounds in just over 21 minutes of play.  

Despite the loss, the Wildcats remained active on the defensive end, forcing the Toros into 18 turnovers over the course of the game.  

It was a tough night for the Wildcats, but they'll have an opportunity for redemption against the Toros in a highly anticipated rematch on February 22 at the Torodome. With that being the third to last game remaining in the regular season, that contest could play a pivotal role in deciding who finishes at the top of the CCAA standings.  

Before then, the Wildcats will aim to bounce back when they host Cal State LA on January 25. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. at Acker Gym.