The Sacramento State men's basketball team showcased a commanding performance Tuesday night in their first game with new head coach Mike Bibby at the helm. The Hornets defeated NCAA Division II’s Dominican University of California 103-79.
The game drew a packed crowd to the brand-new Hornets Pavilion, marking an exciting debut for Bibby as head coach. Sacramento State improved to 52-0 all-time against non-Division I opponents with this victory.
The roster saw significant changes this offseason, with 14 new players added. Despite the new lineup, Bibby said,
“It wasn’t nervous. I can’t get on the court and control what happens in the game.”
Sacramento State held a slim 41-39 lead at halftime and then tightened their defense, improving shooting efficiency to pull away. The lead expanded to as many as 26 points in the second half.
“If we don’t foul them and give up layups, it’s not that close of a game,” Bibby explained.
Bibby inherits a program that ended last season with a 7-25 record, finishing last in the Big Sky Conference for the second consecutive year, signaling a fresh start under his leadership.
Summary: Mike Bibby’s coaching debut energized Sacramento State men’s basketball, delivering a strong win while laying groundwork for program revival after major roster changes.