LOS ANGELES – Fresno Pacific mounted a second-half comeback and had an opportunity to win the game in the final seconds, but host Cal State LA edged out a 56-55 victory over the Sunbirds in non-conference action Monday night. FPU used a 23-6 run in the final 11 minutes to cut the deficit to one before a turnover with three seconds left gave the Eagles the win.

FPU falls to 2-2 overall with the loss, while CSULA improves to 1-1.

"It was a tough outcome, especially having the last shot to win," said head coach Shane Rinner. "We struggled shooting the ball and rebounding in the first half which put us behind. We battled back with some great defense and showed a lot of poise offensively in the second half. We put ourselves in position to win in the final possession but couldn't find the last bucket. We are disappointed, but know we have to turn around quickly."

Cal State LA built a 32-23 lead at halftime and earned its largest lead of 18 points with 11:09 remaining before the Sunbirds went on their run. Bobby Barnes started the run with a layup and Clayton brought FPU within one 56-55 with a pair of free throws with 36 seconds remaining. After a missed free throw attempt from the Eagles, FPU had a final possession to win the game but a drive from Paul into the paint resulted in no-call and a turnover in the final seconds.

The Sunbirds were led by 14 points and four rebounds from Roger Paul. Trevon Clayton contributed 11 points, six rebounds and four steals, while Jeff Amazan totaled 10 points, five rebounds and four assists as the final player in double-figures for FPU.

FPU was limited to .317 shooting from the field and a .222 mark from three, while CSULA shot .444 as a team. The Eagles also outrebounded the Sunbirds 40-36. FPU forced 14 turnovers, however, and totaled seven steals on the night.

David Hall led Cal State LA with 12 points, seven rebounds and two blocks.

FPU hosts Bristol in its home opener this Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 7 p.m.