FRESNO, Calif. – The Fresno State Bulldogs returned to historic Selland Arena on Sunday, battling the CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners in front of a season-high crowd of 4,376 members of the Red Wave.
Fresno State fell 76-71 to CSUB, putting the Bulldogs at 6-3 on the season going into December.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Fresno State got off to a strong start offensively, jumping out to an early lead behind hot perimeter shooting. The Bulldogs knocked down seven three-pointers in the first half and used a balanced attack to build a six-point advantage at the break.
Zaon Collins and Jake Heidbreder provided a spark early, combining for multiple deep balls as the Bulldogs stretched their lead midway through the half. Fresno State also controlled the glass in the opening 20 minutes, grabbing 13 offensive rebounds to create second-chance opportunities.
CSU Bakersfield opened the second half with increased defensive intensity, forcing early turnovers and converting them into points at the foul line. The Roadrunners shot 18-for-19 from the free throw line in the second half, steadily chipping away at Fresno State's lead.
A three-pointer by Heidbreder briefly pushed Fresno State back in front midway through the second half, but CSU Bakersfield responded with a 10-2 run to take a late five-point advantage. Despite late baskets from Collins and Wilson Jacques, the Bulldogs were unable to close the gap in the final minutes as the Roadrunners sealed the game at the line.
NOTES
Fresno State out-rebounded CSU Bakersfield 43-31.
The Bulldogs forced 10 turnovers but committed 16 of their own.
Fresno State attempted 33 three-pointers, making eight.
Wilson Jacques recorded a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds.
UP NEXT
Fresno State will face #22 Arkansas on the road on Saturday.