49ers Start First Win Streak of the Year in 64-61 Win Over Colorado State

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The Long Beach State 49ers put together their first win streak of the season Saturday night at Walter Pavilion, defeating Colorado State 64-61.

Similar to their outing against Pepperdine, the win came in another defensive duel. In the end, the 49ers got to the free throw line 15 more times and forced 22 turnovers to improve to 5-9.

Deishuan Booker led the way for Long Beach State scoring 14 points with only three turnovers. Four of those points came off of critical free throws with less than 20.4 seconds remaining in the game.

Senior forward K.J. Byers was again key down the stretch despite a quiet game of seven points and six rebounds. He had a key block and steal within the last minute, leading to Booker free throws on each occasion.

The game marked the second in a row for the 49ers shooting under 40 percent from the field. However, they converted on 10 more free throws than the Rams, proving to be a huge difference.

Temidayo Yussuf had another strong game with 12 points and seven rebounds. Mason Riggins also put together a strong performance with a near double-double, scoring nine points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

For Colorado State, senior center Nico Carvacho proved to be a huge problem. He scored a dominant 23 points with 22 rebounds. Junior guard Kris Martin chipped in 12 points off the bench including two from behind the arc.

While the 49ers once again found a way to win, the shooting struggles of the backcourt cannot sit well with coach Dan Monson. Bryan Alberts and Elon Maxhuni both struggled again going a combined two for seven from three. Junior guard Jordan Griffin struggled as well going just one for five from deep.

However, the last two games have proven to be major revelations to the 49ers. When shots are not dropping, they can still win ball games.

While only going 3-5 in their last eight games, they have held their opponents to 75 points or fewer each time. As Long Beach State continues to focus on a defensive identity, more wins will pile up.

The 49ers will take a week break before continuing play next Saturday against Stanford, as they look to extend their winning streak to three.

About Post Author

Joel Ruditsky

I am a huge Yankees, New York Giants and Los Angeles Lakers fan. However I have a huge passion for all three sports in general across the MLB, NFL, and NBA. I also cover the Cal State Long Beach Men's Basketball team.

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