LOS ANGELES, Calif. - The Fresno Pacific Sunbirds were unable to overcome an early deficit Wednesday night as they fell to the Cal State Los Angeles Golden Eagles 86-59 in the University Gym. 

Fresno Pacific opened the game with good energy, but early turnovers set them back as they worked to establish an offensive rhythm. Just a minute in, Harrison Pennisi managed to score two free throws, tying the game at 2-2. Cal State LA responded with a layup and three-pointer by giving them an early lead, one which they never surrendered. The Sunbirds leaned on Seth Brown's three-point shooting to stay within range, with Brown connecting on five of his ten three-point attempts in the first half.

Despite solid offensive contributions, the 'Birds struggled with ball control, committing 12 turnovers in the first half alone. They also encountered difficulties in the paint, where Cal State LA  leveraged their size and strength, contributing to a notable points-in-the-paint advantage for the Golden Eagles. By the end of the first half, Fresno Pacific was trailing 44-34.

Cal State LA continued to dominate on both ends, opening the half with a fast-break dunk. The Sunbirds responded through Liam Switzer, who provided energy with a couple of rebounds, a dunk, and a few inside jumpers. Still, the Golden Eagles' defense held strong, causing Fresno Pacific to struggle with both inside and perimeter shots.

Turnovers continued to plague the 'Birds' offense, with 16 more in the second half, totaling 28 for the game. Cal State LA capitalized on these mistakes, adding 46 points from turnovers overall. The Sunbird's scoring became limited, with Switzer and Brandon Gibson occasionally breaking through Cal State LA's defense. Gibson hit a three-pointer midway through the second half, but Cal State LA answered swiftly with their own shots from beyond the arc.

With about six minutes left, the Golden Eagles extended their lead to double digits. Fresno Pacific's attempts to chip away through perimeter shots from players like Jonah Geron and timely assists from Isaac Peralta weren't enough to close the gap. Cal State LA's bench players maintained their impact, contributing 36 points in total, and their defensive intensity never waned. The Sunbirds struggled to find open looks and was unable to establish consistent ball movement, ultimately sealing the game for Cal State LA, 86-59. 

The Sunbirds will look to regroup as they head home for their home opener Saturday night against Nobel College at 4:30pm. In addition to the home opener, Saturday night will be be CenCal Sports Night, for more information about CenCal Sports click the link here. 

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