SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. – Following a strong home weekend that saw Chico State split its series with No. 1 Cal State San Marcos, the Wildcats carried that momentum into a hot day in San Bernardino. Chico State split Friday's doubleheader with Cal State San Bernardino, bouncing back from a narrow opening loss with an offensive surge in Game Two to move to 9-13 overall and 3-7 in CCAA play.

Game 1: Chico State 2, CSUSB 3

Defensive miscues proved costly for the Wildcats after they jumped out to an early two-run lead in the first inning.

Hannah Levy recorded her team-leading fourth double of the season to drive in the opening run, and Aiyana Curry followed with an RBI single to quickly make it 2-0.

However, infield errors in the second inning opened the door for the Coyotes, who capitalized with three runs to take the lead. Chico State mounted a late threat in the seventh inning, loading the bases, but the rally was ultimately cut short.

Game 2: Chico State 9, CSUSB 5

The Wildcats responded with a complete performance in the second game, using timely hitting and solid pitching to secure the split.

Chico State outhit the Coyotes 12-9 and efficiently turned those opportunities into nine runs while tightening up defensively. Bella Tavares earned her third win of the season with a strong outing in the circle, striking out three at the plate.

Eight different Wildcats recorded hits, with four posting multi-hit performances. Marissa Anderson highlighted the offensive effort, becoming the fourth Wildcat to homer this season with a three-RBI blast during a third-inning rally. Teammate Ali Lewis tallied three RBIs on two doubles in the second half of the doubleheader, totaling seven runs batted in on the season for the junior. 

Junior Italia Abrenica smashed a triple to right field for her first three-base hit on the season.

Chico State will continue its CCAA series against the Coyotes on Saturday, March 21, with first pitch scheduled for 11 a.m. at CSUSB Softball Park.