Lumberjacks Fall Late to Dominican, Struggle from Three Point Range

Cal Poly Humboldt opened the weekend with a halftime advantage but could not withstand a dominant second half by Dominican University, losing 89 to 61 at the Conlan Center in San Rafael on November 15. The Lumberjacks led 36 to 35 at the break, but the Penguins outscored Humboldt 54 to 25 after intermission, turning a close contest into a decisive road victory.

Senior forward Shakir Odunewu was recognized for his strong opening weekend with a spot on the West Region Tipoff Challenge All Tournament Team after averaging 14.5 points on 70.6 percent shooting and six rebounds across two games. Odunewu produced 10 points on 4 for 6 shooting in 13 minutes against Dominican. Humboldt was paced offensively by Rob Jenkins with 13 points and six rebounds, while Zaveion Bineyard added 12 points and nine rebounds, the team high. Tyriq McNeal contributed seven points and five boards off the bench, and Drew Ardouin added six points with two assists and two steals.

Team statistics underline strengths and weaknesses from the loss. Humboldt shot 41.4 percent from the field, converting 24 for 58, but went 0 for 17 from three point range. The Lumberjacks held a 15 to 12 edge in second chance points and scored 44 points in the paint compared with Dominican's 54. Dominican's efficiency at the free throw line, where the Penguins shot 81 percent, and 20 points off turnovers provided the margin of victory. Dominican was led by Darius Best with 30 points on 11 of 18 shooting, while Michael Wilson and Jeffery Sargent added 15 points each.

For Humboldt County fans, the result raises immediate questions about perimeter shooting and late game adjustments as the team prepares to continue its road trip at the Bill Holtz Warrior Classic next week. The early season losses require staff and players to address shot selection and ball security to remain competitive in conference play. Complete box score and team statistics are available on the Cal Poly Humboldt athletics site.