The New Pioneer Pete goes 1-1 on his first day of work

Saturday night proved big in East Bay firsts, as the 2010-2011 Womens team notched their first win against the Golden Eagles of CSU Los Angeles, and the new Pioneer Pete made his debut replacing the 11-year-old Pioneer Pete mascot that cheered on teams in the past. They snapped a 12 game losing streak as freshman guard Sarah Finlay put up 16 points in the game. Marlene MacMillan continued to contribute, recording another double double with two 12 packs (points and rebounds).

The 7:30 game featured the Mens team of CSUEB and the 10-3 CSULA squad. In a see saw battle, the Golden Eagles edged out the Pios 67-63. The Pioneers had several leads in the game, though no lead grew more than 7 points. The Eagles stayed in striking distance, and took the lead with 2 minutes left, and never gave up that lead, although the Pioneers keep them against the ropes late in the game. With 10 seconds left, East Bay freshman guard George Toyama made a mid range jumper and was fouled in the process. He completed the 3 point play to bring the game to a 65-63 stand. With 6 seconds left, CSUEB was forced to foul, and when CSULA's Franklin Session made both of his free throws, the final outcome was decided.

The Mens team has been playing good basketball as of late, and it seems to be just a matter of time until they get their first CCAA win as their fellow Lady Pios had done so earlier that night. No fan was more upset than the new Pioneer Pete, who wanted to be a part of a clean sweep of his debut night, so he must settle for a split. Good news is though that both teams resume play in Thursday, Jan. 20th, on "Pack The Gym" night where CSUEB will be attempting to set a CCAA record for attendance of 1,000 fans, in which this dedicated group will receive free Chipotle burritos if this feat happens.