CHICO, Calif. – The Chico State men's basketball team couldn't keep pace in the second half Thursday night, falling 76–62 to CSUSB in CCAA play on Jan. 22, 2026 at Art Acker Gym. Chico State moves to 6–10 overall (4–7 CCAA), while the Coyotes improve to 9–9 (6–5 CCAA).
How it happened
Chico State stayed within striking distance early as the teams traded runs throughout the opening half. The Wildcats used defensive pressure and timely perimeter shooting to match CSUSB possession for possession, but the Coyotes carried a 38–31 halftime lead after closing the half with a late three.
CSUSB opened the second half with momentum, using its depth and rebounding to create separation. Chico State continued to battle, getting inside looks from Chris Holley and jumpers from Max Walters, but struggled to string together stops as CSUSB repeatedly converted second-chance opportunities.
Midway through the half, the Wildcats trimmed the deficit to single digits, but CSUSB answered each push with baskets in the paint and points from its bench. The Coyotes' size and rebounding advantage proved decisive down the stretch, as Chico State was unable to close the gap in the final minutes.
Standouts
Chico State (6–10, 4–7 CCAA)
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Max Walters: 17 points, 2 steals
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Chris Holley: 16 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists
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Robel Zemmo: 9 points, 2 rebounds
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Isaiah Brewington: 6 points, 8 rebounds
Team numbers that told the story
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Shooting: Chico State 21–57 (36.8%), CSUSB 28–57 (49.1%)
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3PT: Chico State 6–20, CSUSB 6–19
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Free Throws: Chico State 14–22, CSUSB 14–19
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Rebounds: CSUSB 44, Chico State 25
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Turnovers: Chico State 7, CSUSB 13
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Points in the Paint: CSUSB 36, Chico State 28
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Bench Points: CSUSB 44, Chico State 9
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Attendance: 493
