The Sunbirds struggled offensively right from the tip, finding it difficult to generate clean looks against the Sharks' aggressive defense. Fresno Pacific managed only three made field goals in the entire first half, shooting a frigid 3-of-26 from the field. Their struggles extended beyond the arc, where they went just 1-of-12, preventing them from establishing any perimeter threat.

Despite their offensive woes, the Sunbirds found some success at the free-throw line, converting 8-of-12 attempts to keep themselves within striking distance. Brandon Gibson and Copper Sheldon each attacked the rim to draw fouls, giving Fresno Pacific a much-needed source of points when their shots weren't falling.

On the defensive side, the Sunbirds applied pressure and forced nine turnovers, trying to disrupt Hawai'i Pacific's rhythm. However, their inability to capitalize on these mistakes proved costly, as they managed only seven points off turnovers. Meanwhile, Hawai'i Pacific played with confidence, moving the ball efficiently and controlling the pace of the game. The Sharks recorded eight assists in the half and connected on four three-pointers, stretching Fresno Pacific's defense.

Hawai'i Pacific also dominated the rebounding battle, holding a 24-13 edge on the glass. Their ability to grab second-chance opportunities and score inside (14 points in the paint) helped them extend their lead. Fresno Pacific found themselves in a 31-15 hole at halftime, needing a massive second-half turnaround to get back into the game.

Coming out of the locker room, Fresno Pacific showed renewed urgency, playing with more energy on both ends of the floor. Their offense, which had been stagnant in the first half, started to find some rhythm. The Sunbirds shot a much-improved 13-of-30 (43.3%) from the field in the second half and finally found some outside shooting, making 2-of-11 from three-point range.

Harrison Pennisi led the charge, scoring nine points while battling in the paint against the Sharks. The Sunbirds' bench also provided a spark, contributing 20 points in the half, led by contributions from Gibson, Quiette, and Seth Brown.

Defensively, Fresno Pacific turned up the pressure, forcing 11 second-half turnovers and limiting Hawai'i Pacific's transition opportunities. The Sunbirds were more active in the passing lanes, with Gibson and Brown each coming up with key steals to ignite fast breaks. However, Hawai'i Pacific remained composed under pressure, executing their half-court offense effectively. The Sharks hit another four three-pointers and maintained their control on the boards, finishing the game with a 40-27 rebounding advantage.

Fresno Pacific made a late push in the closing minutes, trying to trim the deficit below double digits. A key three-pointer by Ryan Abbott and a jumper from Brown gave them momentum, but Hawai'i Pacific responded with steady free-throw shooting. The Sharks converted 10-of-11 free throws in the game, ensuring that the Sunbirds never got close enough to make it a one-possession game.

Despite an improved second-half performance, Fresno Pacific's early struggles proved too much to overcome, and they ultimately fell 62-46.

UP NEXT

The Sunbirds will wrap up their Hawai'i trip with a match-up with the Chaminade Silverswords at 8:30pm following the women's game to follow at 5:30pm. Both game will be streamed on the PacWest Network. 

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