The Chico State men’s basketball team was able to extend its win streak to five, and bring its overall record to 17-3, after a 64-56 victory over the Cal State East Bay Pioneers at home on Friday, Feb. 6.

The win brings Chico State’s conference record to 11-2, and their home game win streak to 7.

First half: Cal State East Bay was unable to hold an early lead, and the ‘Cats were able to get ahead, but only by one point, with the score at the end of the first half 27-26.

The first half was close due to neither team surging ahead in the rebounding battle, and similar field goal percentages. Chico State had 14 rebounds, compared to Cal State East Bay’s 16, but had a field goal percentage of 48, while the Pioneers shot 39 percent. Isaiah Ellis led the ‘Cats to their lead by scoring four dunks, and scoring over half their points in the half with 15.

Second half:

Chico State was able to pull ahead early in the second half, and extend their lead to 10, which they were able to protect until the end of the half, bringing them to a 64-56 victory.

The ‘Cats were able to expand on their lead by taking better shots, and raising their field goal percentage to 61 for the half, while Cal State East Bay dropped to 33 percent. The ‘Cats also took advantage of their chances at the charity stripe, making 13 of their 22 attempts.

Top scorers:

Sohpomore Isaiah Ellis – 24 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, 1 block

Junior Robert Duncan – 10 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks

Sophomore Jalen McFerran – 7 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal.

The ‘Cats are back in action on Feb. 6th, at 7:30 p.m. at home against Cal State Monterey Bay.

Kenta McAfee can be reached at [email protected] or @KentaMcAfee on Twitter.