In a replay of last season’s NCAA West Region championship game, the Chico State Wildcats once again ended up on top of the host Cal State Stanislaus Warriors.

Despite having to climb out of an early 2-13 hole, the Wildcats clawed back to take a 28-27 lead at halftime. The Wildcats then held the Warriors to just 20 second-half points en route to handing the Warriors their first California Collegiate Athletic Association defeat.

In a game in which both teams shot well under 50 percent from the field, it was the Wildcats’ defense that won the night. Chico State held the Warriors to 34.0 percent shooting and received a big boost from its bench to the tune of 22 points from nonstarters. The Warriors had a mere three points from their bench.

Senior forward Jordan Semple had game highs of 13 points and 13 rebounds. Semple also added two assists, four blocks and two steals in a strong overall outing.

Corey Silverstrom and Robert Duncan had 12 and 10 points respectively, both players knocking down two of four three-point shots.

Chico State improves to 6-2 overall and 3-0 in CCAA play. The ‘Cats are tied with Sonoma State for first place. Cal State Stanislaus drops to 5-3 overall and 2-1 in the CCAA. The two rivals meet again Saturday, Dec. 20, at home in Acker Gym. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

Nick Reddy can be reached at [email protected] or @NickIsReddy on Twitter.