SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. - The Fresno Pacific women's basketball team traveled north to compete in the SF State Gator Invitational on Friday afternoon. In the first match of the weekend, the Lady 'Birds triumphed over Cal State San Bernardino 60-45 to claim their first win of the season, capitalizing on 22 points off turnovers to seal the victory.
The Sunbirds opened play with strong defensive pressure, leading to multiple turnovers and fast break opportunities. By capitalizing on free throw chances and scoring effectively in the paint, they managed to take control of the game. Wisniewski contributed significantly with a steal and five points, including a successful three-point play at 2:24. Despite CSUSB's attempts to close the gap, the Lady 'Birds maintained their edge throughout the quarter. The first quarter concluded with the Sunbirds leading 16–9.
The 'Birds found a spark in the second quarter when Perryman hit a timely 3-pointer at 7:39, trimming the gap against CSUSB. Seuell added another crucial three at 2:58, with Wilmurt contributing the assist. Despite these efforts, the Yotes managed to tie the game with an 8-second jumper, ending the quarter tied at 25 points each.
Fresno Pacific opened the third quarter with a quick 4-0 spurt, including a layup by Whitfield at 9:32, assisted by Evans, to regain the lead. Despite multiple turnovers, they stayed within reach as Wilmurt's three-pointer at 2:15 narrowed the gap to one point, 40-39. Both teams exchanged points, but the FPU trailed 40-39 at the end of the quarter.
The Blue and Orange began the fourth quarter with a decisive layup by Evans at 9:41, establishing a lead they would not relinquish. Whitfield contributed with a crucial 3-pointer at 8:40, extending the advantage. The 'Birds capitalized on turnovers, converting them into points and maintaining pressure throughout the quarter. Despite CSUSB's defensive efforts, the Sunbirds' free-throw accuracy, particularly from Wisniewski and Tolbert, widened the gap. The home team outscored CSUSB 21-5 in the final frame, consistently adding to their lead. The game concluded with the Sunbirds securing a 60-45 victory.
Whitfield recorded 10 rebounds, including three offensive boards. Tolbert scored 10 points and converted all six of her free throw attempts. Perryman made three steals and added a 3-pointer. Wisniewski scored 14 points, hitting 12 of 13 from the free throw line, and also tallied three steals. This marks the first win of the season for FPU women's basketball, led by head coach
Tim Beauregard.
NEXT UP: The Sunbirds take on tournament host San Francisco State University on Saturday, November 22 at 7 pm.
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