BOX SCORE
SEASIDE, Calif. — Cal State Monterey Bay junior guard Brandon Ward (Riverside/Woodcrest HS) enjoyed a stellar night, exploding for a career-high 26 points Saturday against Chico State. It wasn't enough, however, as the Wildcats pulled away late to take an 82–61 decision in The Kelp Bed.

Ward's 26 points eclipsed his previous best of 23 set in an 80–72 overtime win against Sonoma State on Dec. 3 of this season. He buried three three-pointers and converted 7-of-8 from the line as part of his big night.

Ward's efforts kept the outcome in doubt until late. The Chico State defense clamped down, holding the Otters 
scoreless from the 7:11 mark until there were just 43 seconds remaining. That allowed the Wildcats to turn an eight-point lead (67-59) into an untouchable 78-59 advantage.
Derrick Anderson (Pittsburg HS) added 10 points for CSUMB (2-13, 1-10 CCAA). Jordan Semple came off the bench to lead Chico (14-4, 8-4) with a 15-point, 10-rebound double-double.

CSUMB takes to the road to begin a four game trip Friday (Jan. 27) at Cal State Dominguez Hills in Carson. The Otters return home to host Cal Poly Pomona Feb. 10 in The Kelp Bed.