WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – The Palm Beach Atlantic men's basketball team secured a 76-55 win against the Puerto Rico - Bayamon in its second Thanksgiving Classic game on Saturday. With today's win, the Sailfish bring their overall record to 5-1.
Dan Braster led the charge for the Sailfish, amassing 20 points, a testament to his ability to get inside the paint and get to the free-throw line where he went 6-for-6.
Will Lee followed closely, racking up 17 points, including a pair of 3-pointers.
Marcus Montalvo contributed eight points with five points coming from the free-throw line.
Grant Ledford contributed a total of eight points, along with a vital 13 rebounds.
Jamaal Walker also added a notable 11 points.
The first half was a tight contest, with both teams trading leads on the scoreboard. The Sailfish demonstrated teamwork and tenacity, garnering 19 rebounds and eight assists along with a commendable defensive performance that forced 10 turnovers. Braster made an impact on the defensive end, pulling off a crucial steal and finishing with a basket to give PBA an early lead. Lee led the 'Fish with 10 points in the period. The half ended with the 'Fish leading 32-30.
In the second half, the 'Fish performed an impressive 20 rebounds, six assists, and seven steals, which helped to stifle the Cowboys' offense. Their defensive efforts were further on display, forcing nine turnovers, and disrupting their opponent's rhythm. The Sailfish pulled away in the second half thanks in part to 12 points from Braster in the half. Free throws from Walker gave PBA its largest lead with a minute to play. The Sailfish fought off the Cowboys for a 76-55 win.
The 'Fish outshot with a field goal percentage of 47 percent compared to the Cowboys' 40 percent. Despite struggling from beyond the arc, the Sailfish made up for it by converting at the free-throw line, netting 90 percent on 21 attempts compared to the Cowboys' 53.8 percent.
PBA also dominated the paint, scoring 44 points against the Cowboys' 40. PBA's bench performed well, contributing 17 points. Second chance points were another area where PBA's hustle paid off, scoring 16 points off of 10 offensive boards.
The Sailfish will face off against Barry University on Nov. 29. The game is scheduled to take place in Miami Shores at 7:30 p.m.