The Chico State men’s basketball team extended its win streak to seven, and brought its overall record to 19-3, and their conference record to 13-3, after a 76-71 victory over the UC San Diego Tritons on Friday, Feb. 12.

Chico State is now first in the CCAA, jumping over the Tritons.

First half:

UC San Diego got off to an early four-point lead, but was unable to keep pace. Chico State led by as much as five, but couldn’t hold onto the lead, ending the first half with the score tied at 29.

The first half was close despite Chico State’s control of the glass. The ‘Cats had 23 rebounds in the first half, compared to UC San Diego’s 18. While the Wildcats were able to win the rebounding battle, the nine turnovers in the half hurt their chances of holding the lead. UC San Diego did well by taking care of the ball, with only one turnover in the half.

Second half:

Chico State was able to kick off the second half with a layup, but UC San Diego kept pace with them. The Wildcats finally managed to get ahead after forcing turnovers and getting fouled, leading to easy free throws. UC San Diego was unable to come back in the game, and the ‘Cats won 77-71.

While the ‘Cats racked up 16 turnovers in the game, the 41 rebounds they had gave them the edge over UC San Diego. The Tritons had trouble in the second half taking care of the ball, with 7 turnovers in the game. While they had less turnovers in the game, they were out-rebounded by the ‘Cats on the glass, with just 32 rebounds in the half.

Top scorers:

Sophomore Isaiah Ellis – 26 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 block

Sophomore Corey Silverstrom – 15 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks

Senior Tanner Giddings – 6 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal

The ‘Cats are back in action on Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m. against Cal Poly Pomona.

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