ELLENSBURG, Wash. – California State University San Bernardino men's basketball opened its 2026-27 season with an 85-82 victory over Western Washington on Friday night at Nicholson Arena in the CWU D2 Tip-Off Classic.
With the win, CSUSB opens its season with a record of 1-0 overall.
The first points of the season came from senior forward Devin Curtis, who scored on a layup just 25 seconds into the contest. Junior guard Chris Harris followed with a strong first-half performance, scoring 11 points to help keep the Coyotes within striking distance.
Despite shooting 52.8 percent from the field (19-of-36), including four three-pointers, the Coyotes entered halftime trailing Western Washington 47-46.
Coming out of the break, CSUSB held Western Washington scoreless for the opening 2:20 while going on a 7-0 run to take a 53-47 lead. The Coyotes continued to build their advantage, with sophomore guard Xavier Clinton knocking down a three-pointer to extend the lead to double digits with just over 12 minutes remaining.
Junior guard Aidan Fowler provided a spark in the second half, connecting on a pair of three-pointers as the Coyotes built their largest lead of the game at 13 points, holding a 77-64 advantage with 7:08 remaining.
Western Washington rallied in the closing minutes, cutting the deficit to 84-82 with four seconds left. Fifth-year center Tane Prictor was sent to the free-throw line with the game on the line, knocking down a crucial free throw to give the Coyotes a three-point lead and help secure the 85-82 victory.
Five Coyotes finished in double figures, led by junior guard Chris Harris with 16 points on 7-of-12 shooting, five rebounds and three assists. Junior guard Hassan Dorman delivered an all-around performance with 16 points, four rebounds, a team-high seven assists and two steals. Prictor added 11 points, five rebounds and two blocks, while Fowler and fifth-year forward Trey Booker-Lowery each contributed 10 points.
The Coyotes return to action on Saturday, Oct. 31, when they face tournament host Central Washington at 3 p.m. at Nicholson Arena in Ellensburg, Wash.
