by Aidan Shelton
In a packed Lumberjack Arena on a Thursday night, Jan 15. Humboldt fans sat on the edge of their seats for back-to-back nailbiting games against conference rival Chico State. While the outcome was different for each team, both games ended with a game deciding buzzer beater. Both teams have had great starts to their year, starting their 2026 with wins against California State University, Dominguez Hills, California State University, Los Angeles and San Francisco State University.
Women’s Basketball started their conference season off on the right foot, remaining undefeated in conference for eight games straight. Their home match against the undefeated Chico State Wildcats would decide who would remain at the top of the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). The Jacks tipped the game off with momentum, controlling the first quarter with a score of 20-7. However, the Wildcats regrouped and were able to outscore Humboldt in the second and third quarter. By the fourth quarter, the Wildcats were able to catch up to Jacks and take the game to overtime. The Wildcats capitalized on the last play and were able to get a basket as the buzzer rang to end the game. Despite the heartbreaking loss, Guard Riley Sanz had a standout performance, recording her first double-double with 16 points and a game-high 11 rebounds. The Jacks rematched Chico on the road on Saturday, and though they lost again, the Jacks remain third in the CCAA.
Men’s Basketball started their 2026 off with three wins but fell to Cal State East Bay on Jan. 10. However, they would bounce back for a stellar performance for their Thursday home match against Chico. While Chico had a strong start, Humboldt was able to trail them closely for the duration of the two halves. The game was decided when Humboldt Guard Wayne Hampton lll sank a three pointer to take the lead with just 0.7 seconds on the clock, electrifying the crowd with an end score of 78-77. The Jacks were able to continue their momentum to their rematch on the road with Chico, dominating the Wildcats 96-77. These wins put Humboldt close to the top of the conference, ranking third overall.
The Jacks will continue their season on Thursday, Jan. 22 with a home match against Cal Poly Pomona which has been dubbed the, “Cal Poly Clash.”
Aidan Shelton is a journalism major with a minor in environmental ethics and the Sports Editor of the Lumberjack. A writer, sprinter and Arcata local, he understands what gives Humboldt its identity and wants to see it flourish. He hopes to encapsulate the uniqueness and diversity of Humboldt sports in his work. In his free time he enjoys being outdoors, going to the gym and travelling. For any sports inquiries contact azs10@humboldt.edu.
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