After three straight wins including two on the road, the Chico State men's basketball team returns to another big weekend of CCAA play at Acker Gym.
Rivals Sonoma State and Humboldt State come to town this weekend and there is a lot to be excited about concerning the men's hoop squad!
"I feel like over the course of the last six weeks the level of improvement we've made has been dramatic," said coach Greg Clink.
For Coach Greg Glink and Chico State, the success is long overdue. The 'Cats have won seven of eight pushing their overall record to 14-4. It's the program's best start through 18 games since 1993.
"I think a big difference this year compared to any other year is the leadership we have on the team, we all know our roles and we are all fighting for each other every day," said Josh Jackson.
During coach Clink's three-plus years on the job he has always stressed defense to his players and this year the 'Cats have responded in a big way. Chico State currently ranks sixth in the country in overall scoring defense, only allowing 58.9 points per game.
"To see that pay-off and to have these guys realize that that's the reason that we're really being successful is important," said Clink.
Not only do they realize it, but they use it as their mantra.
"Since the first day we picked up a basketball this season it's been we're going to be able to stop people and that's what's going to win us games," said Jay Flores.
At 8-4 in conference play, the Wildcats sit in a five-way tie for first place. It's some unfamiliar territory for Chico State, as they haven't been in first place this late in the season since joing the CCAA in 1998. But this is the kind of unfamiliar territory they love.
"We're hoping to make strides and keep the W's coming, that's all we can ask for," concluded Flores.
