Humboldt Men Rally Late, Fall 74 to 64 at Lumberjack Arena
Humboldt State University men rallied in the second half but lost 74 to 64 to UC Merced at Lumberjack Arena on Dec. 6, 2025, after a spirited 11 point run cut a double digit deficit and invigorated the crowd. The game highlighted strong individual efforts from Zaveion Bineyard and Brandon Bento Jackson, and underscored broader community implications for local health, youth engagement, and support for campus athletics.
Humboldt State put together a late push but was unable to complete the comeback in a 74 to 64 loss to UC Merced at Lumberjack Arena on Dec. 6, 2025. The Lumberjacks rallied in the second half, using an 11 point run that brought the crowd to life, but Merced countered with efficient play inside and timely buckets down the stretch to preserve the lead.
Zaveion Bineyard led Humboldt with a double double, finishing with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Brandon Bento Jackson added 11 points and a team high eight assists. Humboldt forced 10 turnovers and connected on 12 three pointers, yet the Tigers controlled the paint and executed when it mattered most.
The result leaves Humboldt with a narrow margin for improvement as the team turns its attention to an upcoming road schedule. Coaches and players will take the lessons from the game on the road, where defensive rebounding and inside defense will be priorities after being outplayed in the paint on Saturday.
Beyond the box score, Saturday night illustrated the role college sports play in Humboldt County life. The crowd response to the 11 point run showed how local games serve as social gathering points that lift community morale. For students and young people in the county, seeing home players produce double doubles and energize the arena can encourage participation in sports and physical activity, which contributes to better mental and physical health.
At the same time, the game prompts questions about equity and access. Rural counties like Humboldt face persistent gaps in funding for recreational facilities, school sports programs, and transportation that can limit youth participation. Public investment in community recreation and reliable transit to campus events supports not only local teams but also broader public health goals by increasing opportunities for exercise and social connection.
As the Lumberjacks head into road play, the season remains a community affair. Residents who value the mental health and social cohesion that sports can bring may find common cause in advocating for resources that keep athletic programs strong, accessible, and safe for student athletes and the wider Humboldt County community.
