SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Fresno Pacific fell to Westmont 79-67 on Saturday night at Murchison Gymnasium. Despite an initial slow start, the Sunbirds recorded 15 assists and seven steals in the contest, capturing 38 points in the second half to close the gap. The 'Birds came into the contest winners of five consecutive games.

Fresno Pacific opened the first half with a shot from downtown by Seth Brown, assisted by Nick Davidson, and a driving layup by Liam Switzer to set the pace. The 'Birds briefly held the lead after Logan Kilbert's 3-pointer at 16:18, making the score 8–2. The Warriors took advantage of the Sunbirds' offensive loll, stealing the lead back 8-13 by 11:25. Contributions from Brown with multiple 3-pointers and Isaac Peralta's successful layup and free throw combination gave the 'Birds the momentum they needed, but Westmont responded effectively. With time running out, freshman Loukas Jones had an incredible steal, that lead to a spin move pass from Peralta to Hugo Gonzalez Garcia to Kilbert who sank yet another three-pointer for the 'Birds, 28-32. Westmont closed the half with a narrow advantage, leading 34–29.

The Blue and Orange made strides in the second half, highlighted by Peralta's fast-break layup at 7:47 and Brown's slam dunk at 9:15, contributing to their 38 points in the half. With six minutes remaining, Gabriel Quiette snuck a pass to Amar Hot, who sank a three-pointer, bringing it 53-69. Soon after, Jones started turning on the heat with another three-pointer from downtown, 58-71. Despite strong offensive efforts, including a three-pointer by Jones at 30 seconds, Westmont maintained control, capitalizing on turnovers and efficient shooting. The game ended with Westmont leading 79–67.

Brown scored 17 points, including four 3-pointers, and tallied five rebounds. Peralta added 10 points, converting four of seven free throws, and recorded three assists. Kilbert posted 11 points, making two 3-pointers and collecting three rebounds. Jones finished with eight points, hitting both field goal attempts from beyond the arc and the free throw line. This was the best performance thus far this season from the freshman, shooting perfectly all game long.

The Sunbirds hold a 7-9 overall record and are 6-4 in PacWest play.

NEXT UP: The 'Birds face off against Jessup on Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 7:15 pm to conclude the home stretch. Come down to the Special Events Center to cheer on your Sunbirds!

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