In a tightly contested matchup on Friday evening, UC Davis edged out Sacramento State with a score of 77-73 at the University Credit Union Center. The game featured a thrilling final 15 minutes where neither team could pull away, as they stayed within a five-point margin. Sacramento State’s attempts to tie the game came to a crescendo with an impressive layup that leveled the score at 73-73 with just over a minute left. However, they were unable to convert any further opportunities, as UC Davis clinched the victory with crucial scoring in the closing seconds.
With 51 seconds remaining, Niko Rocak delivered a decisive basket, followed shortly after by Marcus Wilson’s critical 15-foot jump shot, sealing the win. Each team recorded a field goal percentage of 44%, but UC Davis’s success at the free throw line proved pivotal; the Aggies converted 21 of 27 attempts compared to Sacramento State’s 17 of 21.
Sacramento State, which entered the game seeking its first road victory of the season, went into halftime with a narrow lead of 36-34. The Hornets held their largest lead of the game at 10 points in the first half, but early in the second half, UC Davis began to chip away. With the loss, Sacramento State fell to 2-2 for the season, while UC Davis improved to 3-1, maintaining a perfect home record.
This matchup was also notable as it marked the 123rd installment of the basketball rivalry known as the Causeway Classic, the longest-standing rivalry in Sacramento State’s history. Despite the defeat, the Hornets hold a noteworthy 73-50 advantage in the series that dates back to 1948.
Sacramento State’s standout performances included a game-high 22 points and nine rebounds from one player, while another player recorded their third consecutive double-double with 20 points and 12 rebounds. All three players who reached double figures contributed significantly to their side’s effort, showcasing a continued commitment to excellence early in the season.
Looking ahead, Sacramento State is set to host Presbyterian this Sunday at 1:00 PM at Hornet Pavilion. This matchup is particularly exciting as it marks the first time the Hornets will face the Presbyterian Blue Hose, a Division I team from the Big South Conference. Additionally, the game is part of the Empire Classic multi-team event, which also includes matchups against UCLA and Cal later in the week, promising to be an action-packed stretch for the Hornets.