FRESNO, Calif.- A strong second half performance helped lift the Sunbirds to 56-47 victory Saturday over the Sonoma State Seawolves in the second game of the CCAA/PacWest Crossover. 

The game began with Sonoma State quickly establishing a 5-0 lead, off a layup and a three-pointer after a turnover from Fresno Pacific. The Sunbirds responded when Bre Hurt scored off her own offensive rebound, putting the 'Birds on the board. The Sunbird's defense tightened, forcing a turnover from the Wolves, as Hurt scored another layup off an assist from Jasmine Heu to cut the lead to one. Fresno Pacific continued to struggle with turnovers, allowing Sonoma State to stay ahead, but their defensive rebounding helped prevent the Seawolves from pulling too far away. Despite scoring inconsistencies and missed opportunities, the 'Birds inside game kept them within reach. The quarter ended with Sonoma State leading 13-12, as Fresno Pacific found themselves with early foul trouble but stayed competitive with second-chance points in the paint.

Both teams hit an offensive lull in the second period, struggling to find the basket. The Seawolves took advantage of Fresno Pacific's turnovers, scoring a layup and then forcing a steal to extend their lead to 15-12. Sonoma State managed to capitalize on Fresno's mistakes, and added points for the Seawolves through free throws. The 'Birds bench contributed with defensive energy, generating turnovers but struggling to convert them into points. The Sunbirds' only points came from free throws and a couple of second-chance baskets in the paint. Although Fresno Pacific's defense held Sonoma State to eight points in the quarter, their offensive struggles continued, and the Seawolves led 21-20 at halftime.

The Sunbirds returned with increased aggression and cohesion in the third quarter. Fresno Pacific's offense found its rhythm, led by strong drives and finishes from Bre Hurt and Angela Whitfield, as they racked up 20 points in the quarter. The 'Birds' bench played a significant role, adding valuable points that helped swing the game in their favor. A stronger defensive stance kept Sonoma State's score low, with steals from Olivia Garcia and transition plays that fed the Sunbirds scoring runs. The 'Birds' ability to score in the paint proved effective, and they opened up a lead. Despite the Seawolves' attempts to regroup, Fresno's momentum was unstoppable, ending the quarter with a 40-31 lead.

Sonoma State attempted a comeback in the final quarter, focusing on drawing fouls and converting free throws. . The Sunbirds, however, remained composed, capitalizing on their rebounds and pushing their lead with layups and fast breaks. The bench for the 'Birds stepped up, particularly in maintaining defensive intensity, which led to turnovers that they converted into crucial points down the stretch. Sonoma State tried to narrow the gap with free throws and a couple of jump shots, but Fresno Pacific's consistency on both ends ensured they stayed in control. Time expired and the Sunbirds secured the 56-47 win. 

After a weekend of solid competition the team will look to get back in the gym and prepare for next weekend's Dominican Crossover. The Sunbirds will look to keep things rolling in San Rafael against the San Francisco State Golden Gators, Friday at 5pm. 
 

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