49ers Falter, Lose to Aztecs, 64-55

Long Beach State’s inability to get things done down the stretch cost it a shot at defeating San Diego State in a men’s basketball game Tuesday night at the Pyramid.

The 49ers failed to convert several free throws or score key baskets on several late possessions and San Diego State capitalized for a 64-55 victory.

It marked the first time since 1971 that San Diego State (3-3) has recorded two road victories this early in the season. The Aztecs beat Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, 65-62, Nov. 30

Long Beach (1-5) held several first-half leads and, after falling behind by 10 points in the second half, rallied to pull to within 58-54 on a driving basket by Tony Darden with 2:21 to play.

Darden later rushed a three-point attempt that missed and, with a minute to go, former Compton High standout Deandre Moore hit a short jumper for San Diego State.

Long Beach forward Kevin Roberts missed two free throws 12 seconds later and Aztec center Mike Mackell responded with two free throws for a 62-54 lead.

“We are thrilled to death to be walking out of this place with a win because we have not been the kind of team that has been able to go on the road and beat people,” Coach Steve Fisher said.

Darden led all scorers with 20 points and Mackell had 17 points and six rebounds.

-- Paul McLeod

California 67, UC Santa Barbara 60 -- Branduinn Fullove scored 15 points for Santa Barbara (3-4), but Joe Shipp scored 17 points to lead the Golden Bears (4-1) to their 21st consecutive nonconference home victory.