Skip to Main Content
Chico State's independent student newspaper

The Orion

Chico State's independent student newspaper

The Orion

Chico State's independent student newspaper

The Orion

Nick Martinez-Esquibel

Nick Martinez-Esquibel, Sports Editor

All content by Nick Martinez-Esquibel

Palmer and Fernandez

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
October 1, 2016

Golf legend Arnold Palmer and Miami Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez came from two very different backgrounds.Fernandez grew up in Cuba trying to escape the country for a good part of his life. After three...

Nick Martinez-Esquibel, Sports Editor. Photo credit: Stephanie Schmieding

A farewell to The Orion

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
May 18, 2016
Sports Editor Nick Martinez-Esquibel says goodbye to The Orion as a graduating senior.
Senior AJ Epstein launches a ball during a game against Sonoma State. Photo credit: Jacob Auby

Baseball team captures CCAA title

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
May 17, 2016
The Chico State baseball team won its first CCAA title in 10 years after a 10-9 win over Cal State East Bay.
Head coach Dave Taylor walks off the mound after talking with his team. Photo credit: Jacob Auby

Baseball team squeaks into CCAA tournament

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
May 10, 2016
The Chico State baseball team secured the sixth seed in the CCAA tournament with a win over Cal State Stanislaus.
Sophomore Haley Gilham zeroes in on her target in a game against Cal State Dominguez Hills. Photo credit: Nick Martinez-Esquibel

Softball pitcher launches first career home run in win

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 27, 2016
The Chico State softball team split a doubleheader against Cal State San Francisco.
Nick Martinez, sports editor. Photo credit: The Orion

McGregor’s big mistake

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 26, 2016
UCF fighter Connor McGregor gets himself pulled from UCF 200 after a couple tweets.
First place finisher in the Advanced Women's category, Christina Saschin holds on before her next move.

The Ruckus rocks the WREC

Nick Martinez-Esquibel, Sports Editor
April 15, 2016

The smell of hand chalk and the sight of brightly colored tape filled the WREC on Sunday, April 10 for the fifth annual climbing competition, The Ruckus. The competition solely focused on bouldering,...

Senior Desiree' Gonzalez aggressively rounds second base in a game at home. Photo credit: Lindsay Pincus

Softball coach earns 200th victory at tournament

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 5, 2016
Softball head coach Angel Shamblin earned her 200th career victory in a win over Academy of Art at the Tournament of Champions.
Junior Sonny Cortez makes contact in a game against Cal State Monterey Bay on Feb. 28. Photo credit: Allisun Coote

Snider smashes 7 RBIs in ‘Cats win

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 22, 2016
Junior outfielder Cody Snider led the 'Cats offense in an impressive 12-0 over Cal State L.A.
A woman was killed Wednesday night after being struck by a car and dragged half a mile 
Photo from Google maps

Hit-and-run kills woman dragged half mile

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
February 18, 2016

A woman died of her injuries after reportedly being hit by a car and dragged a half a mile, Wednesday night. Police are still looking for the driver who fled the scene.Chico police were notified of a hit-run...

Sophomore third baseman Cameron Santos slides into third against Menlo College on Jan. 31 Photo credit: Cam Lesslie

Baseball team opens weekend with a win

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
February 5, 2016
The Chico State baseball team beat Point Loma University to open up the weekend series.
Kate Scott interviews Saint Mary's College men's basketball head coach Randy Bennett for Comcast. Photo courtesy of Kate Scott.

Going inside the mind of KNBR sports anchor, Kate Scott

Nick Martinez-Esquibel, Staff Writer
December 8, 2015
Pac-12 analyst and KNBR 680 anchor Kate Scott gives the inside scoop on her broadcasting career and her broadcast of the Chico State women's basketball game versus San Francisco State on Dec. 4.
Nick Martinez-Esquibel. Orion file photo.

Are Super Bowls more important than morals?

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
November 16, 2015
Morals are left unchecked in professional sports, and sports columnist Nick Martinez has more.
The Chico State women's basketball team lost 52-81 in its final preseason exhibition game to the University of Nevada, Reno Wolf Pack. Photo credit: Nick Martinez-Esquibel

Women’s basketball loses exhibition to University of Nevada, Reno 52-81

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
November 16, 2015
The women's basketball team lost its last pre-season game 52-81 against University of Nevada, Reno on Nov. 7.
Nick Martinez-Esquibel. Orion file photo.

Sports are more than ‘just a game’

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
November 2, 2015
Most people find it hard to understand how fans can be so attached to sports, but to us, sports are more than just a game.
The men's cross-country team, ranked No. 2 in the nation, takes first place at the San Francisco Invitational. Photo courtesy of Gary Towne.

Chico State cross-country dominates at San Francisco Invitational

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
October 15, 2015
With both cross-country teams taking first place at the San Francisco State Invitational, the Wildcats prove why they are ranked among the top five teams in the nation.

Injuries make football hard to love

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
October 12, 2015
Sports columnist Nick Martinez talks about his unique love/hate relationship with the biggest sport in America.
Omar Nuno, junior transfer forward, leads the men's soccer team in goal this season. Photo credit: John Domogma

Nuno on the prowl to score for the ‘Cats

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
October 10, 2015
Omar Nuno is off to great start with at Chico State, leading the men's soccer team in goals.
Olivia Mediano, sophomore outside hitter, racked up her 233rd kill of the season in the 3-0 sweep of Cal State East Bay. Photo credit: John Domogma

Women’s volleyball team sweeps Cal State East Bay in three sets

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
October 2, 2015
The Chico State women's volleyball team swept Cal State East Bay in three straight sets for its 13th win of the season.
Men's cross-country runner, Will Reyes, is expected to be the top Wildcat runner in his first season, after redshirting last year. Photo courtesy of Gary Towne.

Reyes leads men’s cross-country to victory

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 29, 2015
Junior Will Reyes makes his Wildcat debut at the Ash Creek Invitational after redshirting last season.
Orion file photo.

Giant checks, small bank accounts; Daily fantasy sports

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 27, 2015
DraftKings— win big or go home.
The Chico State Wildcats beat the San Francisco Gators in five sets on Sept. 22.. Photo credit: John Domogma

Women’s volleyball team beats Gators in thrilling fashion

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 24, 2015
The Chico State women's volleyball team defeats San Francisco State in five sets on Sept. 22.
Olivia Mediano gets ready for a game against Cal State East Bay in Acker Gym on Tuesday. Photo credit: John Domogma

Killer ‘Cat: Sophomore hitter Mediano to have breakout season

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 21, 2015
Olivia Mediano, sophomore hitter, is having a breakout season for the 'Cats as her kill count piles up.
The women's volleyball team opens CCAA play with a three-set sweep against Cal State East Bay. Photo credit: John Domogma

Chico State women’s volleyball wins first game of CCAA play

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 18, 2015
Wildcat volleyball swept Cal State East Bay to open CCAA play 1-0.
Olivia Mediano has stepped into a big role in the 2015 season. Photo courtesy of Chico Wildcats.

Volleyball drops 2 in doubleheader for first losses of the season

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 15, 2015
The Chico State women's volleyball team is no longer undefeated after losing its first games of the season causing the season record to drop to 8-2.
Orion file photo

Collegiate athletes are broke

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 12, 2015
NCAA athletes may be stars when they're on TV, but they are still broke when they get home.
Orion file photo

California NFL 2015 season preview

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 8, 2015
Geared up for the new season? See what moves your team is making to help or hurt its chances at a Super Bowl run.
Tanner Giddings shows his school spirit in Acker Gym on Wednesday morning. Photo credit: Kiana Alvarez

Wildcat finds mentor in former NBA player

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 6, 2015
Tanner Giddings, men's basketball center, sheds light on the former NBA player who took him under his wing.
The Chico State Women's volleyball team won their first two games of the season against Dominican University of California and Holy Names University. Photo credit: Sam Barker

‘Cats win 6 straight sets to start season 2-0

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
September 5, 2015
The Chico State women's volleyball team won both of their first games of the 2015 season.
Kody Atkins and Nicole Anthony run during practice on Wednesday before hitting the weight room. Photo by John Domogma.

Women’s cross-country season preview

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
August 31, 2015
The 'Cats are looking to claw their way back into the top 10 for the fall 2015 season.
MLB playoff race heats up

MLB playoff race heats up

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
August 31, 2015
With regular season winding down and September just around the corner, California baseball teams gear up for playoffs.
Nick Martinez-Esquibel. Orion file photo.

Fantasy Football draft— Thumbs up, thumbs down

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
August 24, 2015
Still haven't drafted your fantasy team yet? Check out some players that are on the rise, or the decline.
An essential guide to understanding sports lingo

An essential guide to understanding sports lingo

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
May 12, 2015
Can of corn? Putting mustard on it? If you have ever been lost while reading sports articles, here is a handy guide to some common terms.
Junior first baseman Desiree' Gonzalez tries to get out a runner on April 3 in a game against UC San Diego. Photo credit: Ryan Pressey

Softball team secures playoff berth through grit, determination

The Chico State team extended its season with a late playoff push.
Junior outfielder Matt Jacobson batting against Sonoma State on Feb. 27 Photo credit: Caio Calado

Wildcats come up short on Senior Day

The baseball team came up short in their final game of the season.
Junior Alli Cook batting against Hawaii-Hilo on Feb. 12. Photo credit: George Johnston

Wildcats sweep pivotal double header

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 30, 2015
The Chico State softball team won both games of its double header to open an important series with Cal State Dominguez Hills.
Former men's soccer player Michael Janjigian sets up on defense against Cal State Dominguez Hills last season. Photo Credit: John Domogma

Soccer program celebrates 50th anniversary

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 28, 2015
Chico State soccer continues its winning tradition five decades later.
Junior middle distance runner Olivia Watt competes on March 14 at the Wildcat Invitational. Photo courtesy of Luke Reid

Watt leads on the track, inspires team to succeed

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 21, 2015
The junior runner is helping guide the Chico State women's track and field team to a record-breaking season.
First year pitcher Hunter Haworth tosses the ball to senior Dylan Garcia to beat a Cal State Dominguez Hills batter from getting on base in a game on April 10. Photo credit: Ryan Pressey

‘Cats drop 1st game of series against Gators

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 19, 2015
The Wildcats lost their first game of the weekend series against San Francisco State.
Senior outfielder Connor Huesers batting against Cal State Dominguez Hills on Feb. 10. Photo credit: Ryan Pressey

‘Cats take 1st game of series against Toros

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 14, 2015
Chico State took advantage of mistakes by Cal Sate Dominguez Hills to win the first game of series.
First-year runner Alex Burkhart competes in the steeplechase at the San Francisco State Distance Carnival on April 4. Photo courtesy of Alex Burkhart

First-year runner sprints into action for Wildcats

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 11, 2015
Alex Burkhart is already breaking records in the steeplechase event, having recently accomplished the second-best time in Chico State history.
Wildcat first-year pitcher Haley Gilham takes a practice pitch during a game on Feb. 12 against the University of Hawaii. Photo credit: John Domogma

First-year pitcher delivers stellar performance in March

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 7, 2015
Haley Gilham has found her rhythm on the mound, helping the softball team to a successful run in the last month.
Senior outfielder Connor Huesers staying alert on the outfield during a game against Sonoma State on Feb. 27. Photo credit: Ryan Pressey

Wildcats drop doubleheader

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 6, 2015
After a win Thursday night, Chico State lost both games of a double header against Cal State Los Angeles on Friday.
Chico State starting pitcher Luke Barker winds up for a pitch during a game. Photo courtesy of Luke Reid.

Wildcats take first game of the weekend

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 5, 2015
Chico States won a close series opener against Cal State L.A. as graduate student pitcher Luke Barker goes for seven innings.
The Graduate, a popular sports bar frequented Chico State students. Photo credit: Zach Aucella

Best Chico bars to watch the NCAA finals

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
April 1, 2015
The Orion breaks down the best downtown bars at which to eat, drink and cheer while watching the closing games of the NCAA Tournament.
Junior outfielder Alli Cook looks at her opponent while attempting to score in a game against Southern Oregon on Feb. 15. Photo credit: Caio Calado

Cook steals her way into record books

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 25, 2015
The Chico State softball team's junior outfielder recently broke the all-time stolen base record for the Wildcats, leaving her mark in the program's history.
Senior pitcher Derek Sesma on the mound during practice on Feb. 13 Photo credit: George Johnston

Wildcats lose series finale

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 24, 2015
Chico State's baseball team lost their series 3-1 to Cal Poly Pomona with a loss on Sunday.
Junior first baseman Matt Jacobson up to bat against Sonoma State on Feb. 27. Photo credit: Caio Calado

Wildcats drop both games in double header

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 12, 2015
The baseball team lost two games on Saturday against UC San Diego.
Senior Jordan Semple and junior Tanner Giddings battle against San Francisco State players for a rebound on Jan. 16. Photo credit: Caio Calado

Wildcats lose in tournament finals

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 10, 2015
The Chico State men's basketball team suffered a heart breaking loss in a hard fought game against Cal Poly Pomona.
Former San Francisco Giants manager Dusty Baker, right, and mechanical engineering professor Greg Karillo discuss their mutual interest in renewable energy resources during Baker's visit to Chico State. Photo credit: Nick Martinez-Esquibel

Former Giants manager Dusty Baker visits Chico State

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 10, 2015
The previous leader of San Francisco's professional baseball team spent time on campus to explore solar engineering.
Senior Jordan Semple advances the ball up court while being chased down by a Cal State L.A. opponent on Jan. 30 Photo credit: Caio Calado

‘Cats advance to conference finals

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 7, 2015
The Chico State men's basketball team will advance to the conference finals for the fourth straight season after a tough fought win against Cal State Stanislaus.
Senior guard Hannah Womack dribbles down the court in her final season as a Wildcat. Photo credit: Caio Calado

‘Cats lose emotional game on Senior Night

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 6, 2015
The Chico State women's basketball team looks forward to next fall after ending a tumultuous 2014-15 season on Senior Night with another loss.
Junior Ashley Huff up to bat against Hawaii-Hilo on Feb. 12. Photo credit: Caio Calado

‘Cats sweep double header with strong pitching

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 6, 2015
The softball team won a doubleheader against San Francisco State behind brilliant pitching performances.
Chico State's Hannah Womack shoots for a three-pointer during a faceoff against Cal State L.A. on Jan. 30 in Acker Gym. Photo credit: Malik Payton

Wildcats look back at game-winning shots

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
March 2, 2015
Senior guards Hannah Womack and Mike Rosaroso discuss what it's like having the ball in the last seconds of a basketball game.
Brooke Bowen, forward on the women's basketball team, listens to her favorite song, "Fight Night," outside of Butte Station. Photo credit: Caio Calado

Music pumps up Wildcats’ performance

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
February 22, 2015
Chico State athletes talk about the songs that help them get ready for their games.

‘Cats continue struggles on the road

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
February 16, 2015
The Chico State women's basketball lost their third straight game and went 0-2 for the weekend.
Junior Wildcat Amanda Cordeiro hits the ball towards left field Feb. 12, during a match against University of Hawaii-Hilo. Photo credit: John Domogma

‘Cats split doubleheader in season opener

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
February 15, 2015
The Chico State softball team went 1-1 to start the season against Hawaii-Hilo on Thursday.
Giants, A's fumble in efforts to shore up rosters

Giants, A’s fumble in efforts to shore up rosters

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
February 14, 2015
As the MLB season approaches, Orion sports writer Nick Martinez evaluates how both Bay Area baseball teams fared during the offseason.
Chico State women’s head coach Brian Fogel and first-year guard Whitney Branham strategize during practice. Branham has started in all games this season and is tied for the most assists. Photo credit: John Domogma

First-year Wildcat seizes opportunity to lead

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
February 11, 2015
Point guard Whitney Branham is taking advantage of her chance to head up the offense of the Chico State women's basketball team.
Illustration by Ashiah Scharaga

Pros, cons of off-campus housing options

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
February 9, 2015
The truth of the benefits and disadvantages of student housing in Downtown Chico, on Nord Ave and in the Avenues.
Chico State's Mike Rosaroso being guarded by Los Angeles State's Chris Martin on Jan 30. Photo credit: Caio Calado

Wildcats extends their win streak to six

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
January 31, 2015
The 'Cats beat Cal State L.A. to improve their record to 10-3 in conference play, and 13-5 overall.
Dave Taylor keeps the team on its toes with fly balls and grounders during practice on Friday. The Wildcat baseball team is looking to make it to the Division II College World Series for the second year in a row. Photo credit: Zach Aucella

Chico State baseball team season preview

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
January 28, 2015
As the baseball team gets ready to start its season, we offer an in-depth look at this year's team.
Corey Silverstrom practices at Acker Gym on Jan 22. Photo credit: John Domogma

Wildcat athletes’ game-day superstitions

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
January 26, 2015
The Orion interviewed three Chico State athletes to talk about some of their unique superstitions and game-day routines.
Chico State's Jordan Semple (45) being guarded by San Francisco State's Bren Haley (3) on Jan 16. Photo credit: Caio Calado

‘Cats Topple Cal State East Bay

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
January 24, 2015
Wildcats extend their winning streak to three against Cal State East Bay.
Chico State’s Tanner Giddings, center, jumps for the ball in a game against Sonoma State on Saturday. Photo credit: Caio Calado

‘Cats find success at away games

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
January 21, 2015
This season, the Chico State men's basketball team has compiled an impressive 6-1 record on the road, in contrast to a 2-4 record at home.
Chico State's Mike Rosaroso (31) facing the defense from San Francisco State's Derrick Brown (22) on Jan 16. Photo credit: Caio Calado

Wildcats rally late to beat Sonoma State

Nick Martinez-Esquibel
January 19, 2015
Chico State stops Sonoma State's late serge in the second half to go 2-0 for the weekend.