SAN FRANCISCO - The Cal State East Bay women's basketball team opened its 2024-25 CCAA campaign with a thrilling 75-71 overtime victory against San Francisco State on Saturday afternoon at the Main Gym at Don Nasser Family Plaza. In a game that saw 19 lead changes and nine ties, the Pioneers showcased their resilience and teamwork to secure the road win against the Gators. 
 

GAME SUMMARY

 
The contest remained tight throughout, with neither team able to build a substantial lead. East Bay edged ahead 14-11 after the first quarter, thanks to a layup by Ariyah Smith in the closing seconds. The Gators fought back in the second period, taking a slim 28-27 advantage into halftime.

The third quarter saw both teams trading baskets, with the Pioneers reclaiming the lead and entering the final frame up 44-41. East Bay appeared to be in control, building a six-point cushion with just under two minutes left in regulation. However, San Francisco State rallied, tying the game at 62-62 with 35 seconds remaining to force overtime.

In the extra period, the Pioneers' determination shone through. After exchanging leads early, East Bay took control when Lailah Carey sank a free throw to put them up 70-69. A crucial rebound by Krista Sheaffer and a layup from Smith extended the lead to 72-69. Smith then came up with a vital steal, and Carey's clutch free throws in the final seconds sealed the victory for the Pioneers.

NOTABLE STATS

• Taylor Eldredge led the charge for East Bay with a game-high 20 points, shooting an efficient 7-for-11 from the floor and 6-for-8 from the free-throw line.
• Smith contributed across the board with 16 points, seven assists, and a season-high six steals.
• Carey and Sheaffer also reached double figures in scoring 12 and 11 points respectively.
• East Bay's defense played a significant role in the win, forcing 27 turnovers and converting them into 22 points.
• The Pioneers also dominated the glass, outrebounding the Gators 44-34, with Gwendilyn Aasland pulling down a team-high eight boards.

POSTGAME QUOTE

Cal State East Bay head coach Jenny Thigpin following Saturday's overtime win to open CCAA action:
"It was a great way for our group to start conference, picking up a road win as they are tough to come by at any point during the season. We played hard and competed, and those are two things that will give you a chance to win. We made plays down the stretch and opened up conference on a positive note."
 

RECORDS

Cal State East Bay: 2-4, 1-0 CCAA
SF State: 2-5, 0-1 CCAA
 

UP NEXT FOR CAL STATE EAST BAY

The Pioneers will look to build on the momentum as they continue their CCAA schedule with next challenge on Thursday, December 5 in Chico, California, to face Chico State. Tipoff at Art Acker Gymnasium is set for 5:30 p.m.