A hot-shooting Kyle Monk and tenacious defense from the Fresno Pacific Sunbirds helped push conference leading Academy of Art into overtime, but turnovers proved costly in an 88-82 loss. Head coach C.J. Haydock praised the team's compete level and grit but highlighted the detrimental impact of turnovers and conceded offensive rebounds. Monk's impressive first half performance, including 20 points and six three-pointers, propelled FPU to a 41-39 lead at halftime. Despite maintaining the advantage, ART U's free-throw opportunities and FPU's turnovers led to an overtime loss. The Sunbirds, reliant on three-pointers, shot 51% from the field but were hindered by 20 turnovers, ultimately leading to their defeat. Monk and Pennisi combined for 46 points in a tremendous offensive showing. The team returns to Fresno for a four-game homestand, beginning with a game against Dominican University of California on February 15th.

By the Numbers
  • Fresno Pacific shot 51% from the field
  • 20 turnovers by FPU converted into 29 points for ART U
  • Kyle Monk scored 20 points in the first half, including six three-pointers
  • Ryan Abbott contributed 9 points, 9 boards, and 5 assists
State of Play
  • Fresno Pacific Sunbirds lost 88-82 to Academy of Art despite maintaining the lead for nearly two-thirds of the game
  • The team returns to Fresno for a four-game homestand, with the next game against Dominican University of California on February 15th
What's Next

The Fresno Pacific Sunbirds will begin a four-game homestand, playing four of the final five games of the season at the Special Events Center. They will face Dominican University of California on February 15th.

Bottom Line

Fresno Pacific Sunbirds' strong offensive performance and shooting percentage were overshadowed by turnovers, ultimately leading to their overtime loss against Academy of Art. The team looks to bounce back as they start a four-game homestand, with the upcoming game against Dominican University of California.