Otters Drown in Playoffs

Evan FitzGerald, Staff Reporter

evan_fitzgerald@csumb.edu

March 6, 2008

Despite a nearly sellout crowd the Otters were not able to finish their last home game of the season with a win, falling to CSU Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) 56-53 at the Kelp Bed on March 4. 

It was a playoff atmosphere at the Kelp Bed, and the crowd was able to get into the game early. From the get go it was a close game, with many lead changes throughout the first half. Neither team was able to achieve a huge advantage, though the Otters were able to hang in the game despite not hitting their three point shots in the beginning minutes. Juston Willis, a senior and Business major had 10 of his game leading 16 points in the first half and the score was tied 29-29 at the break.

The second half started much like the first, neither team able to obtain an advantage, the crowd backing the Otters all the way. The Otters played their hardest against a larger team with several players taller then the five on the floor from the Otters. Due to several missed calls and turnovers in the final minutes, CSUDH was able to pull away and win the game 56-53.

"I feel like they gave it all they had," said Lewis Hall, a Sophomore Psychology major. "They should have given me the striped shirt and let me ref because I could have done way better."

This ends a chapter in the history of the men's basketball program in its first year of California Collegiate Athletic Association eligibility. After going on a winning streak they were able to make it to the playoffs in the first year it was possible. With the season finished this was the last game that will be played in the gym this season, as the floor and bleachers are going to be replaced.  

For more information about Otter basketball visit: www.otterathletics.com.