FRESNO, Calif. — Fresno Pacific men's basketball had a phenomenal return from their Hawaii trip with the 79-64 victory over Menlo College on Saturday at the Special Events Center. The Sunbirds' offense was highlighted by 12 successful three-pointers, a trio of player's who all had their moment to shine in the second half, and senior Isaac Peralta's induction into FPU's all-time points list.

"I thought our defensive urgency in the last nine minutes carried the day," mentioned head coach C.J. Haydock. "Just a really comprehensive effort on that end of the floor. Also, a huge contribution from Harrison Pennisi with timely shots and a monster run from Seth Brown and Loukas Jones in the second half."

Fresno Pacific opened the game with a strong start, quickly establishing a lead as Harrison Pennisi scored a layup and a tip-in within the first three minutes. Pennisi kept things rolling for the 'Birds, capitalizing on every chance to score. The Sunbirds also maintained their momentum with effective defensive plays, including a resounding block by Seth Brown and multiple steals, which allowed them to stay competitive against Menlo. Fresno Pacific's bench contributed notably, adding 15 points to the team's total. As the half progressed, freshman Loukas Jones and Brown each connected on 3-pointers, helping the 'Birds briefly regain the lead at 24–19. Despite this, Menlo managed a late push, and a free throw gave them a narrow 36–35 advantage at the end of the first half.

The Blue and Orange surged ahead in the second half with an impressive offensive display, finding a rhythm that completely shut down the Oaks. Peralta initiated the momentum with a layup at 19:27, followed by Brown's 3-pointer at 18:26, widening the gap. The Sunbirds capitalized on Menlo's turnovers, and Peralta's pivotal steal at 9:14 led to a Jones 3-pointer, which bolstered their lead. As the half continued, FPU extended its advantage with a barrage of 3-pointers and successful fast breaks. Brown's back-to-back 3-pointers, culminating at 3:37, pushed the lead further. The 'Birds concluded the half with a 44–28 run, finishing the game with a impressive 79–64 victory.

Offensively, Brown scored 19 points, converting 5 of 9 from beyond the arc. In the PacWest, he is currently ranked first in three-pointers per game (2.8), fifth in three-point field goal percentage (.389), and third in free throw percentage (.846). Pennisi added 18 points, shooting an efficient 9 for 11 from the field and collecting eight rebounds. Peralta contributed with eight assists and four steals. When the sole senior Sunbird captured his fourth point of the match, he officially secured his place in FPU's Top Ten in all-time points. He is close to breaking into the top ten in several other categories, including steals and assists. Freshman Jones also had an unforgettable performance at the Special Events Center, tallying 14 points and making 4 out of 5 three-point attempts. Every shot he made sent the stands to their feet, screaming and clapping with applause.

"Our point guards Nick Davidson and Isaac Peralta had one of their best playmaking games of the year, combining for 15 assists. We are looking forward to a big week ahead, and will lean in to the growth we can achieve as a team."

Fresno Pacific has a record of 13-13 overall and 12-8 in PacWest competition. With one more week of regular season play, the 'Birds are battling for a spot in the final six at the PacWest conference. The Sunbirds are currently ranked fourth in the PacWest standings, but two games still stand in their way.

To view the Men's Basketball PacWest Standings, CLICK HERE.

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