by Ariana Wilson

The Cal Poly Humboldt Men’s Basketball Team began its 2025 season on Saturday, Oct. 18, hosting College of the Redwoods for a home-opener exhibition game. The Lumberjacks left the arena with a decisive 103-76 win. 

After a successful 2024-25 season, with a 13-9 final result in conference play, last year’s team concluded the season at the California Collegiate Athletic Association Basketball Tournament. The Jacks’ former coaching staff, Chris Tifft and Brandon Billups, transferred to CSU San Bernardino, along with Aiden Fowler, a key player for the team’s success last season.  

Expectations were high for this year’s group of athletes, but this year’s team is green, from athletes to head coach, DJ Broome. The Jacks aim to build on last year’s momentum with a roster of talented transfers and newcomers.

A familiar face returns to DJ Broome’s staff as assistant coach, Kevin Johnson Jr. Johnson Jr. aims to add to his Lumberjack legacy and class of 2014 Hall of Famer title. 

The Jacks’ win on Saturday will not count toward official records. Still, their preseason journey continues with a non-conference game against Santa Rosa Community College on October 25, with their CCAA Opener on December 4 to tip off their official season.

Ari is a senior journalism major and the science editor this semester, with an adoration for the environment and conservation. She is currently pursuing her scientific diving certification and plans to meld her journalistic passions with scientific research in the future. For any science inquiries please contact ajw167@humboldt.edu.