Gibbs to Miss Game for CSUN Because of Grandfather’s Death

Cal State Northridge scoring leader Keith Gibbs will miss the Matadors’ game Saturday against Northeastern Illinois because of the death of his maternal grandfather late Wednesday.

Gibbs was contacted by his mother several hours after Northridge’s 82-73 overtime win over Northern Arizona in Flagstaff. Gibbs, a senior forward who is averaging 14.2 points, scored 22.

Before dawn Thursday, Gibbs was driven to Phoenix by Northridge assistant Jerry Carrillo. Gibbs then caught a flight through Los Angeles to San Jose, his hometown.

Gibbs told Coach Pete Cassidy that he would rejoin the team in Milwaukee for Monday’s game against Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The funeral is Saturday.

David Keeter will replace Gibbs in the starting lineup, giving Northridge a three-guard offense, including point guard Andre Chevalier and shooting guard Brooklyn McLinn. Without Gibbs, Northridge (5-13) is down to nine players. Guard David Swanson chose not to make the trip, citing lack of playing time and a desire not to miss class Monday and Tuesday.

Sixth man James Morris, who had been in New Orleans because of the death of his brother, rejoined the team Wednesday.