The Pacific men's basketball team aims for a season sweep against Pepperdine after winning their previous matchup 74-69. Currently holding a record of 15-10 and 6-6 in the WCC, Pacific stands in a competitive four-way tie for fourth place in the conference, a crucial position for tournament byes. The Tigers are coming off a home loss to Santa Clara but boast a strong home winning percentage this season. Senior Elias Ralph leads the team in scoring and rebounding, solidifying his status as a key player. Saturday’s game is critical as Pacific seeks to bolster its NCAA NET ranking as they strive for a playoff berth.

By the Numbers
  • Pacific has a current NET ranking of No. 109, while Pepperdine ranks No. 273.
  • The Tigers have achieved a .909 home winning percentage, their highest since 2004-05.
  • Ralph averages 16.4 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, ranking top-five in multiple WCC categories.
Yes, But

Pepperdine has been competitive in recent games, almost winning several matches, including an overtime loss to San Diego. Their performance could pose a threat to Pacific’s game plan, especially given their consistent free-throw success.

State of Play
  • Pacific is currently tied for fourth in the WCC standings, which impacts their upcoming tournament seeding.
  • The Tigers have only used two starting lineups this season, indicating a stable team dynamic.
  • Pacific has a strong rebounding margin at +9.3, ranking them in the top 15 nationally.
What's Next

If Pacific secures a win against Pepperdine, they will strengthen their playoff positioning and boost their confidence going into the conference tournament. Maintaining their successful rebounding and scoring efficiency will be key in their upcoming games.

Bottom Line

Pacific's upcoming game against Pepperdine is more than just a chance for a season sweep; it represents a critical opportunity to solidify their standing for tournament play. Consistency in gameplay and leveraging their home-court advantage will be essential for their success.