Sac State packs the Pavilion, but Hornets suffer first loss. Mike Bibby reacts

Sac State Packs the Pavilion, but Hornets Suffer First Loss

First-year coach Mike Bibby urged his team to fully commit after Tuesday’s narrow defeat at Hornet Pavilion. Bibby emphasizes the small but crucial details in basketball, like boxing out for rebounds, making extra passes, and converting free throws. While pleased with the team’s gritty effort against a strong opponent, Bibby remains frustrated by ongoing lapses.

“It’s the little things that irk Mike Bibby in this sport. This includes boxing out for rebounds, or making the extra pass, and making free throws.”

UC Santa Barbara beat Sacramento State 92-87, handing the Hornets their first loss after starting the season 2-0. This was also Bibby’s first defeat as a collegiate head coach. The game drew a packed house of 2,743 fans for the third consecutive home event, providing an entertaining showdown that could have swung in Sac State’s favor with a few changes.

Season Start and Game Highlights

Sac State opened the season with wins against Division II Dominican University of the Bay Area (103-79) and Jessup University of Placer County (86-76).
The Gauchos, from the Big West Conference which Sac State will join next season, are a top-tier program.
The Hornets shot well, making 52% of their attempts.
Sac State was outrebounded by three but felt the margin was larger.
UC Santa Barbara made 13 of 27 three-pointers; Sac State made 10 of 21.

Coach and Player Reactions

Mike Bibby and the Hornets acknowledged the rebounding disadvantage felt more significant than the numbers suggest, and the Gauchos’ sharpshooting from beyond the arc proved decisive.

“The third consecutive packed house at Hornet Pavilion with 2,743 fans witnessed an entertaining game, and it might have been the third successive triumph if a few things went Sac State’s way.”

Looking Ahead

The game marked a defining early test as Sacramento State prepares to compete in the Big West Conference next season, highlighting areas for growth in rebounding, defense, and clutch execution.

Author’s summary: Mike Bibby’s Hornets showed promise but fell short against UC Santa Barbara, revealing key areas to improve before joining the Big West Conference next season.

The Sacramento Bee — 2025-11-12