HAYWARD, Calif. — Heading up to the Pioneer Challenge, Fresno Pacific rallied from an 11-point deficit against tournament host Cal State East Bay in the second half. As the clock ran out, FPU had successfully made it a two-point game, but ultimately fell 71-75 on Friday night.

Fresno Pacific opened the game with a balanced attack, featuring significant contributions off the bench, which accounted for 18 of their 31 points in the first half. Despite the team's efforts in the paint, where they scored 18 points, the Sunbirds struggled with turnovers, committing 11, which hindered their momentum. Cal State East Bay capitalized on these opportunities, building a lead by the end of the half. The half concluded with the Sunbirds trailing 42–31.

Fresno Pacific made a strong push in the second half, highlighted by Seth Brown's three-pointer that narrowed Cal St. East Bay's lead to 42–34 at 17:48. Brandon Gibson Jr. kept the momentum with a fast-break layup at 9:42, bringing the Sunbirds within four points. The duo kept the momentum rolling for the Sunbirds, shrinking the Pioneer's lead with every drive up the court. Brown captured another three pointer at the three-minute mark, rallying to keep the Sunbirds in the game with a score of 65-68. Although the Pioneers capitalized on multiple free throws, Gibson Jr. made it 67-69 with his own shots at the line.

Despite FPU's 40-point effort in the half, CSUEB maintained control, clinching the game with a final score of 75–71.

Peralta scored 15 points and recorded three assists while leading the team in field goals made. Brown added 13 points with four 3-pointers. Gibson Jr. finished with 14 points, converting all six of his free throw attempts. Harrison Pennisi contributed 10 points, shooting 5-for-9 from the field and adding one block.

NEXT UP: The Sunbird men continue competition in Hayward as they take on Stanislaus State on Saturday, November 15 at 5:30 pm.

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