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Make sure to unmute the above video for the enthusiastic call from the play-by-play announcer. And below you’ll find the breathless press release from Humboldt Athletics:

ARCATA, Calif. – In a moment that will be etched into the annals of Lumberjack Arena, Kalib LaCount hit a buzzer-beater from just inside half court to lift Cal Poly Humboldt to an electrifying 80-77 victory over Cal State San Bernardino on Thursday night. The dramatic win marked the Lumberjacks’ first triumph over the Coyotes since February 16, 2019, snapping a seven-game losing streak in the series.

“It took the entire 40 minutes to get this one across the finish line, but I am very excited for our players and fans,” stated head coach Chris Tifft. “San Bernardino fought and clawed to get back into the game, but we found a way to stay focused just long enough to get the exciting win on our home floor. Our guys will remember this one.”

Game Recap

The Lumberjacks (7-5, 3-4 CCAA) came out firing in the first half, shooting an impressive 61.5% from the field. Led by LaCount’s 22 points—a career-high—and a stellar 21-point performance from Rob Diaz III, Humboldt built a 42-36 halftime lead.

Cal State San Bernardino (11-5, 4-3 CCAA) battled back in the second half behind a game-high 26 points from Evan Oliver and a dominant 23-point, 13-rebound double-double from Nic Welp. The Coyotes tied the game multiple times but were unable to take the lead.

In the final moments, with the game tied at 77 and the Coyotes poised for overtime, LaCount took control. As the clock wound down, he launched a deep shot from just inside half court, sending the Lumberjack faithful into pandemonium as the ball went through the net.

By the Numbers

  • Kalib LaCount: 22 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals, including the game-winning buzzer-beater.
  • Rob Diaz III: 21 points on 6-of-8 shooting, 8-of-10 from the free-throw line, and 4 rebounds.
  • Kyle Frelow: 14 points and 8 rebounds, anchoring the Lumberjacks in the paint. He also had 3 steals and 2 blocks defensively. 
  • Humboldt shot 51.0% from the field, including a solid 72.7% from the free-throw line (24-of-33).
  • The Lumberjacks scored 22 points off turnovers and dominated the fast break with 28 points.

Streak Snapped

Thursday’s win ended a seven-game losing streak to the Coyotes, dating back nearly six years. The last victory came on February 16, 2019, when Humboldt also triumphed in front of a raucous home crowd. Up Next

The Lumberjacks will look to carry their momentum into their next matchup against Cal Poly Pomona this Saturday, January 11, at 3:00 p.m. in Lumberjack Arena. Fans are encouraged to come out and support as the Jacks aim to extend their two game winning streak. It is also Youth Day, so the team will be signing post game autographs for all kids in attendance. 

For more information on Cal Poly Humboldt men’s basketball, please visit humboldtathletics.com, download our mobile app, and follow us on all social media platforms. 

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Here’s another angle of the game-winner: