ATHERTON, Calif. - The Fresno Pacific men's basketball team secured their first win of the season after defeating San Francisco State 87-71 in a non-conference matchup. The Sunbirds outscored the Gators with the team hitting 9 of 19 from beyond the arc and converting 20 of 24 free throws.

"Thought we finally had a cohesive offensive output this evening," said head coach C.J. Haydock. "We shared the ball well, played at a good pace, and lived at the rim. Was good to get some guys back from injury, and their fingerprints are all over this game."

Fresno Pacific opened the first half with a balanced offensive performance, highlighted by sophomore guard Brandon Gibson Jr.'s layup and free throw at 5:15 that extended their lead. The Sunbirds showed efficiency from beyond the arc, converting six 3-pointers, which contributed to their scoring surge. A memorable 3-pointer occurred at the ten minute mark, when Logan Kilbert bumped the team to a six-point lead, 16-10. The team capitalized on fast-break opportunities, outscoring SFSU 16-4 when it came to fast-break points. 

Despite a brief tie early on, the Sunbirds pulled ahead with a strong defensive effort, securing three steals and limiting San Francisco's second-chance points. The 'Birds maintained the lead as the clock winded down, yet the Gators managed to bounce back from an eight-point deficit. The half concluded with FPU leading 42-31.

The Blue and Orange opened the second half with a strong 14–4 run, highlighted by Amar Hot's 3-pointer at 18:33, to quickly extend their lead. Harrison Pennisi contributed significantly with a layup at 17:58 and successful free throws, maintaining the momentum through the early minutes. Gibson further increased the advantage with consecutive plays, including a layup and an assist to Hot for a 3-pointer at 9:11.

Despite San Francisco State's attempts to close the gap, the Sunbirds consistently responded. Liam Switzer's steal led to a fast-break dunk at 10:21, and Nick Davidson's free throws kept the Sunbirds ahead. Gibson Jr. continued to make a difference in the final minutes with a layup followed by a successful free throw at 2:53. The Sunbirds finished the game with a decisive 87–71 victory, the first of the 2025 season.

"Really thrilled that Brandon Gibson Jr. picked right back off where he left off pre-injury. He's worked really hard to make a jump in his game, and it's evident he's turned into a really good Division 2 player, and I'm just happy for him to have the success he's earned."

Gibson Jr. led the Sunbirds with 20 points, converting 6 of 7 field goals and going a perfect 8 for 8 from the free-throw line. Hot added 11 points, sinking three 3-pointers on three attempts. Harrison Pennisi contributed 13 points and collected five rebounds. Liam Switzer recorded two steals and two assists, showcasing his defensive capabilities.

"We've got a lot of growing left to so, and still more guys who we need to get back healthy. Thrilled for the challenge of a quality opponent tomorrow in Monterey Bay to close out our non-conference weekend." 

NEXT UP: The 'Birds head into day two of the PacWest/CCAA crossover on Saturday, November 29. The next match will be against Cal State Monterey Bay at 5 pm.

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