Chevalier’s All-Around Play Lifts Cal State Northridge

On the night he became the school’s career leader in steals, Andre Chevalier stole the show as Cal State Northridge defeated Southern Utah, 65-63, Saturday night in a nonconference game at Northridge.

Chevalier made a three-point shot with 22 seconds to play to give the Matadors the lead, then helped seal the victory with his defense in the final seconds.

Southern Utah’s Delmar Johnson was forced to take a desperation jumper from more than 25 feet with Chevalier in his face in the final second. The shot hit the back of the rim and Northridge (9-13) escaped with its sixth consecutive home-court victory.

Northridge Coach Pete Cassidy said Chevalier’s assignment was to pass the ball to center Peter Micelli, who was to look for the best passing or shooting option.

Micelli, who had 15 points, passed the ball back to Chevalier, who did not hesitate to shoot. Chevalier, a junior point guard, finished with 12 points, five assists, four rebounds and three steals. He has 123 steals in his career.

Chris Yard, the recipient of several passes by Chevalier, had game-highs in points (18) and rebounds (11). Brooklyn McLinn added 11 points as the Matadors avenged a 25-point loss to the Thunderbirds (10-10) two weeks ago at Cedar City.

Richard Barton led Southern Utah with 17 points.