BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - With the game on the line and the Roadrunners in possession for the final shot, Cal State Bakersfield's Ronald Jessamy knocked down the buzzer-beating game winner Tuesday in the Icardo Center. Jessamy's clutch bucket sent `Runner fans home happy and gave CSUB big momentum heading into the resumption of Big West play on New Year's Day.

CSUB and Idaho went toe-to-toe Tuesday afternoon in the non-conference clash, exchanging the lead 18 times and playing to 8 tie scores. With 15.7 seconds remaining, Idaho's Brody Rowbury knocked down a contested jumper in the paint to put the Vandals ahead of the `Runners. CSUB Acting Head Coach Mike Scott called a timeout and drew up a play for his squad, which wound up in the hands of Jessamy. Bakersfield's big man pulled up for the game-winning shot and knocked it down with just a couple seconds remaining. Idaho's last-second, half-court, desperation heave was unsuccessful as the `Runners closed out 2025 with a victory.

Bakersfield was led by CJ Hardy, who tallied 20 points and two assists, including a wide open dime to Jessamy in the clutch. Jessamy scored eight points to go with five rebounds. AJ George and Jaden Alexander each chipped in 10 points on the day while George added four boards and four assists.

CSUB was more efficient from the field, knocking down 48% of their field goals compared to 38% for Idaho. The `Runners led for nearly 29 minutes in the close game, ultimately pulling out the victory against the Vandals.

The `Runners will take a week off from competition for Christmas before resuming Big West play on Jan. 1. Come to the Icardo Center on New Year's Day to see Cal State Bakersfield take on UC Irvine in the Big West home opener. Tickets are available now at the link below.

~GoRunners.com~