ROHNERT PARK, Calif-  Freshman Mike Nelson hit seven three-pointers on his way to a career-high 25 points, but it wouldn't be enough to prevent Sonoma State from dropping their fifth consecutive game in an 83-79 loss to Cal State Monterey Bay in Rohnert Park.  The Seawolves battled for 40 minutes against one of the hottest teams in the CCAA in dropping to 9-13, 5-11 CCAA.  The Otters improve to 9-13, 8-8 CCAA with their seventh win in their last eight games.

Nelson's seven three-pointers are tied for the third-most in a single game in SSU history.  Andrew Kochevar holds the single-game record of nine, which he set last February.  Nelson entered the game with just eight three-pointers all year.

Both teams shot an identical 29-of-50 (58%) from the field in the game.  In the second half, the teams were even hotter as SSU shot 62.5% and CSUMB connected at a 65.2% clip.

The teams exchanged leads several times in the first half before SSU went into the break up 41-37.  The Seawolves would hold on to that lead until a D'Shon Cannon layup with just under five minutes to go put the Otters up one at 72-71.  The lead went back and forth before CSUMB iced the game at the line with five consecutive free throws in the final half minute. 

The Seawolves struggled from the line all night, converting just eight of their 21 free throw attempts (38.1%).

Nelson had five three-pointers and 19 points in the first half before having to sit much of the second half in foul trouble.  Andrew Kochevar and Blake Saunders picked up the slack, finishing with 14 points apiece.  Steve Cornett had a solid all-around game with ten points, eight rebounds, and six assists. 

The Otters used a six-man rotation for much of the game and used just seven players total.  Jose Sanchez led the way with 20 points and 11 rebounds.  Steven Monreal (19 points) and D'Shon Cannon (17 points, five assists) also contributed a lot in the Otter win. 

Sonoma State heads to Cal State Stanislaus and Chico State next weekend.

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