STOCKTON, Calif. – Chico State men's golf bounced back in a big way Friday, firing a tournament-low 13-under-par round to surge from 12th into solo fourth at the NCAA Division II South Central/West Super Regional.

After a challenging opening round, the Wildcats found their rhythm and made a statement move up the leaderboard, now sitting just three strokes off the lead heading into Saturday's final round.

Western Washington and West Texas A&M are tied atop the standings, with Cal State San Bernardino just one stroke back after posting an 8-under round. Chico State has firmly entered the title conversation following its impressive second-round performance.

The Wildcats placed four players under par, a stark contrast from Thursday's round, as adjustments and a renewed mindset paid off across the lineup.

Senior Naoki Easterday led the charge with a 67 (-5), climbing 30 spots into a tie for seventh place.

Freshman Ty Weaver continued his standout debut season, carding a 68 (-4) to move into a tie for 23rd.

Vineet Vallamsetty added a 69 (-3), vaulting into a tie for 14th and further strengthening Chico State's position.

Giuseppe Aliotti contributed a 71 (-1) with five birdies on the day, while Alex LemMon posted a 78 (+6) to round out the Wildcats' scoring.

With one round remaining, Chico State sits within striking distance of the lead and will look to carry its momentum into Saturday's final round in Stockton. The Wildcats will tee off starting at noon on Saturday, looking for a duplicate day to punch their ticket to the NCAA DII National Championship in Boulder City, Nevada.