Matador Loss Shows Effect of Layoff

After almost two weeks off, Cal State Northridge got back to playing basketball Saturday night. The Matadors’ rust was evident.

In its first game since a few hours after the Jan. 17 earthquake, which was centered near its campus, Northridge committed 21 turnovers and was charged with 29 personal fouls in an 85-69 loss to Northeastern Illinois.

Reggie Smith scored 21 of his game-high 24 points in the second half as the Golden Eagles pulled away at the free-throw line.

Take away a last-second, throw-away three-point basket, and Northeastern Illinois (12-7) made only three field goals in the last 10 minutes 33 seconds. But the Golden Eagles shot 32 free throws in the second half, making 26.

“That’s a very unique situation, to hold a team to three field goals in 10 1/2 minutes and they increase their lead,” Northridge Coach Pete Cassidy said.

Andre Chevalier paced Northridge (3-13) with 18 points.

Northeastern Illinois outrebounded Northridge, 34-25.