SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. – The Chico State men's basketball team faced a tough setback Thursday night, falling 64-82 to Cal State San Bernardino in their rematch. The Wildcats had claimed the first meeting with an 81-67 victory in Chico, but the Coyotes responded to even the season series at 1-1. Isaiah Kerr led Chico State with a team high 20 points and six rebounds, but the Wildcats were unable to stay within striking distance throughout the game.  

The Wildcats recorded just their second conference loss of the season, dropping to 11-2 in CCAA play and 15-4 overall. Meanwhile, the Coyotes strengthened their push for a top two seed, improving to 9-4 in the conference and 16-6 overall.  

Chico State had trouble finding their offensive rhythm throughout the game, but Kerr led the way with 20 points and six rebounds. Caden Harris provided an efficient scoring boost, finishing with 18 points on 6-7 shooting from the field.  

The first half was a game of runs, but Cal State San Bernardino managed to pull ahead by eight at halftime. A quick 7-0 burst early in the second half fueled the Coyotes' momentum, extending their lead to 25 by the 11:03 mark. 

The Wildcats were able to sink four times the amount of three pointers that the hosts did, but the Coyotes dominated below the basket with 56 points of their total were finished from under the rim. The 'Cats only recorded five baskets in the paint, a difficult day down low.

Chico State will have a chance to rebound quickly as they travel to face Cal Poly Pomona on Saturday. The Wildcats edged out the Broncos 83-81 in an overtime thriller in their first meeting. 

Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. on February 1 at Kellogg Arena.