CHICO (February 27, 2018) — The 2017-18 Coyote season came to an end Tuesday night in the CCAA Tournament opening round against a foe that has had its way against CSUSB over the last few years. Chico State dominated at the free throw line and defeated the Coyotes 84-63 at Acker Gymnasium.
 
A decided edge
The Wildcats outscored the Coyotes 27-2 at the free throw line, and benefited from CSUSB's 23 fouls. Chico State was whistled just 13 times.
 
Third time
The Coyotes were defeated for the third time this season against the Wildcats, who shot better than 50 percent from the field in each game. Chico State (20-7), led by Jalen McFerren's career-high 30 points, shot 51.1 percent on 24 of 47 shooting.
 
Leading the way
Senior Jacardo Hawkins paced the Coyotes (13-14) with 16 points. Elijah Brown was next with 15 and Ajon Efferson 11. Blake McBride had nine points and T.A. Dixon had eight for CSUSB, which shot 49.1 percent from the floor.
 
Pivotal moment
CSUSB cut a double-digit deficit in the first half and trailed 37-29 at halftime. After Hawkins' jumper put the Coyotes within seven (38-31) with 19:09 remaining, he was called for a foul on Isaiah Ellis, who attempted a three-pointer. He hit all three free throws and the Coyotes never got closer than nine points of the lead.