The San Jose State University Spartans men’s basketball team lost a tight contest to the UC Riverside Highlanders 80-75 on November 12, 2026, at the Provident Credit Union Event Center in San Jose, California. Mekhi Mason led San Jose State’s scoring with 22 points, shooting an efficient 7-for-8 from the field and a perfect 3-for-3 on three-pointers.
San Jose State opened the game strongly, establishing a 16-3 lead early, driven by scoring from Mason and Joey Chammaa. The Spartans maintained an advantage for much of the first half, leading 37-36 at halftime after Chammaa converted two free throws in the closing seconds. Chammaa finished with 15 points, five assists and three rebounds.
In the second half, the Spartans continued to battle, holding a 49-45 lead midway through the period. The game featured multiple lead changes down the stretch. With five minutes remaining, Mason’s layup gave San Jose State a 67-66 lead. Later, a driving layup by Mookie Cook and a basket by JaVaughn Hannah pushed the Spartans ahead 75-72 with just over two minutes left.
UC Riverside answered late, with key scores including a three-pointer from Easton Reagan and a basket by Tony Duckett. These put the Highlanders ahead 76-75 with one minute remaining. Despite strong shooting from San Jose State, UC Riverside secured the win 80-75.
Additional contributions for the Spartans included Robert Vaihola’s 10 points and seven rebounds, maintaining his season field goal accuracy at 12-for-13. Freshman Zine Eddine Bedri scored a season-high 10 points off the bench, while JaVaughn Hannah added nine points and three assists. Oliver Kullamäe recorded a career-high three steals. San Jose State shot an impressive 60.5% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range but committed 24 turnovers that resulted in 30 points for UC Riverside. Brayden Barrett made his collegiate debut in the game.
San Jose State will next play Alabama State on November 15, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the Provident Credit Union Event Center, with the game broadcast on MW+.
CSB Take
The San Jose State Spartans demonstrated high offensive efficiency and strong individual performances in this close loss to UC Riverside. Mekhi Mason continued his scoring consistency, and emerging players like Zine Eddine Bedri and Oliver Kullamäe contributed meaningful minutes. However, turnovers significantly hindered the Spartans’ ability to secure the win, underlining the importance of ball control and defensive stops. Addressing these areas will be crucial for San Jose State as they aim to convert competitive games into victories in the Mountain West schedule.
Source: Original report
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