Sacramento State Hoops Start Strong As Both Teams Celebrate Season-Opening Victories

Three triumphant debuts unfolded in Sacramento State basketball this week, heralding the start of the 2025-26 season.The most eagerly anticipated introduction was that of former Sacramento Kings legend Mike Bibby, who helmed the men’s team to a decisive 103-79 victory over Dominican on November 4. The women’s team, under the guidance of Aaron Kallhoff, dominated Stanton University with a striking 124-39 win the previous day.Both matches took place in the newly unveiled Hornet Pavilion, located within the campus fitness center, The WELL, with a sold-out crowd of 2,312 fans present for the men’s game.Bibby, who starred as the point guard on the Kings’ competitive early 2000s squads, brought considerable expertise as half of his 14-year NBA tenure was spent in Sacramento.Notably, the Hornets' entire 14-player roster consists of newcomers, situating Sacramento State among only eight national programs without returning players. In the men's game, five players netted double figures, led by Prophet Johnson and Jayden Teat with 21 points each. Jeremiah Cherry showcased his talent with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while also blocking three shots. Meanwhile, the women's roster also featured five double-digit scorers, with Brooklyn Taylor setting a personal record of 19 points. Despite the impressive nature of...