FRESNO, Calif. — In a thrilling showdown, Fresno Pacific men's basketball secured a 73-69 victory over Westmont College, capturing their third straight win in the new year. Before the half, Isaac Peralta hit his 1,000th career point as a Sunbird, marking a monumental moment for the senior point guard before FPU sealed the deal. The Sunbirds held off Westmont's second-half rally, aided by 18 successful free throws out of 23 attempts. 

To kick things off the right way, Fresno Pacific opened the game with a successful three-pointer by Seth Brown, assisted by Peralta, setting the tone for a competitive first half. Despite several turnovers early in the half, the Sunbirds managed to keep the game tight, with significant contributions from Harrison Pennisi and Brandon Gibson Jr., who both converted key layups.

The home team found momentum midway through the half, initiated by Brown's timely three-pointer at 6:34, which helped FPU pull ahead. Peralta played a crucial role, adding points in the paint and contributing with defensive rebounds, which led to his 1,000th career point. The Sunbirds finished the half strong with a late three-pointer by Nick Davidson, assisted by Peralta, securing a 44–33 lead over Westmont. Davidson was relentless against the Warriors, making his way past their defensive line time and time again.

FPU maintained control during the second half, highlighted by Logan Kilbert's early three-pointer at 17:44, which extended their lead. Davidson contributed significantly with a three-point play at 16:19, keeping momentum in the Sunbirds' favor. Despite a push from Westmont, including a late three-pointer that changed the momentum, the 'Birds held firm to their lead. With the score jumping from 58-49 to 62-55, thanks to late jumpers by Hot and Liam Switzer, the 'Birds gradually ran into resistance.

The match became perilous as the Warriors made it a two-point game after a free throw at the 1:39 mark, 64-62. Coming down to the wire, Kilbert, Davidson and Peralta solidified the outcome with a fast break layup and crucial free throws in the final seconds, sealing a 73–69 victory.

Peralta led the team with 12 points and recorded five assists, contributing significantly from the free-throw line by converting six of seven attempts. Brown added 13 points, including two 3-pointers, and recorded two steals. Switzer was efficient from the floor, scoring 10 points on 5-for-6 shooting and blocking two shots. Davidson contributed 13 points and collected six rebounds, providing a solid presence on the boards.

NEXT UP: The 'Birds are back at home this Tuesday, January 13 against Azusa Pacific at 7:15 pm. Come cheer on your Sunbirds at the Special Events Center!

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