MERCED, Calif. – The Chico State men's basketball team could not overcome a strong second half from UC Merced, falling 86–76 in CCAA play on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at Greg and Cathie Hostetler Court. The Wildcats slip to 7–14 overall (5–11 CCAA), while the Bobcats improve to 9–11 (7–9 CCAA).
How it happened
Chico State started the afternoon with energy, forcing turnovers and converting in transition to build an early advantage. The Wildcats held UC Merced scoreless for the opening two minutes and used balanced scoring to stay in front for much of the first half before heading into the break trailing just 35–30.
The second half saw UC Merced flip the momentum. The Bobcats attacked the paint consistently and increased the tempo, outscoring Chico State 51–46 after halftime. Despite strong interior finishes from Chris Holley and timely perimeter shots from Ned Joyce and Jeremiah Dargan, the Wildcats were unable to string together enough stops to reclaim the lead.
Chico State made several late pushes, trimming the deficit to single digits multiple times behind fast-break buckets and offensive rebounds. However, UC Merced answered each run with points in the paint and free throws down the stretch to seal the home win.
Standouts
Chico State (7–14, 5–11 CCAA)
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Chris Holley: 16 points, 6 assists
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Ned Joyce: 12 points (3-for-4 3FG), 3 steals
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Robel Zemmo: 11 points
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Jeremiah Dargan: 11 points
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Isaiah Brewington: 8 points, 6 rebounds
Chico State's bench contributed 24 points, providing key minutes throughout the contest.
Team numbers that told the story
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Shooting: Chico State 26–58 (44.8%), UC Merced 31–56 (55.4%)
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3PT: Chico State 8–24, UC Merced 5–10
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Free Throws: Chico State 16–20, UC Merced 19–24
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Rebounds: UC Merced 30, Chico State 26
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Turnovers: Chico State 12, UC Merced 11
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Points in the Paint: UC Merced 46, Chico State 34
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Fast-break points: Chico State 17, UC Merced 9
