SEATTLE — Cal State East Bay men's basketball team emerged victorious in a hard-fought battle against Seattle Pacific, securing a 71-64 win Saturday evening at Royal Brougham Pavilion. The triumph marks the Pioneers' second consecutive victory.
The game remained tight throughout the first half, with multiple lead changes keeping spectators on edge. As the clock wound down to the final seconds before halftime, Tyree Campbell broke a 32-32 deadlock with a crucial layup, giving the Pioneers a slim 34-32 advantage at the break.
Cal State East Bay came out strong in the second half, with Denis Kadiric and Beril Kabamba scoring the opening baskets to extend their lead. However, Seattle Pacific fought back, tying the game at 44-44 with 12:31 remaining on a 3-pointer by Mason Landdeck.
The Pioneers quickly regained control as Teiano Hardee sank a 3-pointer less than a minute later, igniting a surge that saw Cal State East Bay build a commanding 18-point lead. With 3:01 left in the game, Kabamba's layup put the Pioneers ahead 67-49.
Despite a late 10-0 run by the Falcons, Cal State East Bay maintained their composure. Clutch free throws from Ramsey Huff and Payden White in the final minutes sealed the victory for the Pioneers.
- Hardee led the scoring charge for Cal State East Bay with 17 points, showcasing efficiency by shooting 5-for-9 from the field, including two 3-pointers, and 5-for-6 from the free-throw line.
- Kabamba and White also reached double figures, contributing 15 and 13 points respectively.
- The Pioneers' defensive effort was particularly noteworthy, as they recorded a season-high 13 steals.
- Nine of the 10 Cal State East Bay players who saw action grabbed at least two rebounds, with Campbell leading the team with five.
Cal State East Bay head coach Bryan Rooney praised his team's performance on Saturday:
"Very proud of our guys tonight in earning the win over a talented, well-coached Seattle Pacific team. We were at our best when our defense dictated the action, which is something we need to continue going forward."
Rooney also commended Hardee's leadership, adding, "Tremendous respect for the senior leadership Teiano Hardee showed. His toughness was contagious and a key factor in the victory."
Cal State East Bay: 3-5
Seattle Pacific: 2-8
|
|
UP NEXT FOR CAL STATE EAST BAY |
The Pioneers will look to extend their winning streak as they face (RV) Saint Martin's in a non-conference matchup on Monday, December 16 to finish up their road trip to the Pacific Northwest. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Marcus Pavilion in Lacey, Washington.
