The Vance Walberg era of Fresno State men’s basketball kicked off with a victory, as the Bulldogs defeated Sacramento State 64-57 in their season opener Friday night at the Save Mart Center. A strong Red Wave crowd was on hand to witness Walberg’s debut win as head coach.

Fresno State features one of the most revamped rosters in Division I, with 14 newcomers and only two returning players — senior guard Jalen Weaver and junior forward Pierre Geneste Jr. The Bulldogs rank in the top 20 nationally in fewest returning minutes, points, and rebounds.

Related Story: New Look Basketball Bulldogs Open at Home. How Will They Fare Under Walberg?

New Starting Five Takes the Court

With a fresh lineup, Fresno State fans eagerly anticipated Walberg’s choice of starters for gameday. Forwards Elijah Price, Alex Crawford, Mykell Robinson, and guards Jalen Weaver and Zaon Collins took the court as the starting five.

The team’s lack of experience showed in the first half as Sacramento State came out strong. Hornets guard Julian Vaughns led his team with 17 points, going 8-for-12 on field goals and hitting his only three-point attempt.

Walberg, hired to bring his signature dribble-drive offense to the Bulldogs, saw glimpses of speed in his squad. However, missed field goals, limited defense, and a shortage of rebounds left Fresno State trailing 37-30 at halftime.

Bulldogs Turn the Game Around in Second Half

The second half told a different story as the Bulldogs came out fired up. Guard Amar Augillard took control, leading the comeback effort.

At the 14:26 mark, Augillard made a layup to tie the game at 41-41. Just seconds later, at 13:56, his jumper gave Fresno State a 43-41 lead. From there, it was the Bulldogs’ night to command.

Augillard finished the evening with 30 points, 9-19 in field goals, 4-13 in three-point shots, 8-8 in free throws, and four rebounds. He became a player to watch with that performance.

“Everything that comes to my mind when I step on the court is no one can guard me. I knew with the team letting me drive into the rim and shoot it, I knew I could do whatever I want on the court,” said Augillard.

Augillard wasn’t expected to be a focal point of the offense; his role was primarily as a decoy. However, with open looks, he capitalized on his opportunities.

Collins was the only other Bulldog to score in double digits, finishing with 11 points on 4-of-12 shooting, including 2-of-6 from beyond the arc and 1-of-2 from the free-throw line.

In addition to his scoring, Augillard’s ball-handling, court awareness, and communication on the move proved invaluable to the team.

With the off the court controversies that followed Collins when he stepped foot on campus, getting this victory was validating for him and for his journey as a Bulldog.

“I feel blessed for this opportunity that Walberg gave me to be here. Playing here brings a smile to my face. Everyday getting the chance to practice on the court with my brothers and especially tonight, it made me happy,” said Collins.

Building Blocks for Future Success

The team still has work ahead, but their growing chemistry showed as the game progressed. This victory could serve as a key building block, offering Fresno State a chance to sharpen their defense and shooting consistency as they face tougher opponents later in the season.

“It’ll make us grow closer together. There was a point in the game where we almost could’ve broken down, but we kept encouraging each other. I think we’re going to have a great season this year,” said Augillard.