COSTA MESA, Calif. — Competing in the final match of the 2025 year, Fresno Pacific men's basketball fell to Vanguard University (6-3, 2-1 PacWest) with a final score of 87-76 on Saturday at the Freed Center for Leadership and Service. The Sunbirds were led by 40 points scored in the paint, but Vanguard capitalized on free throws, making 31 of 40 attempts.

Fresno Pacific opened the game with a layup by Harrison Pennisi, assisted by Seth Brown, setting an early pace. Gabriel Quiette's layup at 10:55, coupled with a free throw, helped the Sunbirds gain a 20–16 lead. However, Vanguard responded, overtaking the lead by halftime through efficient free-throw shooting and defensive rebounds. The first half concluded with the Sunbirds trailing 45–37.

The Blue and Orange made a strong push in the second half, sparked by key plays from Isaac Peralta and Brandon Gibson Jr. Peralta's layup at 16:39 and subsequent scores helped close the gap, while Gibson Jr. contributed with a pivotal layup and an assist on Amar Hot's 3-pointer at 10:06, narrowing Vanguard's lead. Multiple players on FPU stepped up, but the Sunbirds trailed 87-76 as the game concluded.

Peralta scored 13 points and recorded four assists, contributing significantly with two steals. Brown added 13 points, including two 3-pointers, while also grabbing three rebounds. Pennisi posted 12 points and collected six rebounds, adding two blocks on the defensive end. Logan Kilbert finished with 11 points, highlighted by three 3-pointers.

The Sunbirds are now 2-8 overall and 1-3 in PacWest play.

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