WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Palm Beach Atlantic men's basketball team secured a decisive victory over the University of Puerto Rico-Bayamon, 88-60, on Saturday night at Rubin Arena.
Preston Le Gassick led the team with 20 points, converting 6-of-13 attempts from beyond the arc. This performance marked his third consecutive game recording at least 20 total points.
Clay Payne added impact with five field goals on six attempts and blocked three shots.
Dante DePante provided defensive support with two steals and dished out a team-high five assists.
Tyler Burton contributed 12 points, hitting four 3-pointers and recording two steals.
Alvin Tumblin Jr. led the team with eight boards with six points.
The 'Fish started strong with a series of successful plays, including a notable stretch of three consecutive 3-pointers by Le Gassick, building an early lead. The home team capitalized on fast breaks and second-chance points, outscoring the Vaqueros in the paint with 18 points. The home squad's bench contributed significantly with 15 points, providing depth to maintain momentum throughout the half.
The defensive effort was highlighted by three blocks and four steals, limiting UPRB's opportunities and leading to several turnovers. As the half progressed, the Sailfish continued to extend their lead, closing the first half with a score of 45-26, establishing a solid foundation for the remainder of the contest.
The 'Fish began the second half with a strong offensive surge, highlighted by Le Gassick's 3-pointer at 19:15, extending their lead. The team maintained momentum with big defensive plays, including multiple blocks by
Christian Kirkland, while capitalizing on fast breaks to further distance themselves from the Vaqueros. By mid-half, the Sailfish had increased their advantage, aided by consistent shooting and contributions from the bench.
As the half progressed, PBA continued to pressure UPRB, with
Blake Wilson and
Trent McNair contributing key points. McNair totaled a season-high of 11 points off the bench. Despite efforts from the Vaqueros to close the gap, the home team's defense stood firm, with Payne and
Broderick Ellis swatting shots and grabbing rebounds. The half ended with PBA leading comfortably, 88-60.
The Sailfish dominated the boards with 53 total rebounds, including 21 offensive rebounds, and recorded nine blocks in the win. The 'Fish finished with 23 second-chance points. PBA outshot the Vaqueros 46 percent to 41 percent. The Sailfish have won their last four games by at least 28 points or more.
PBA hosts Palm Beach County rival Lynn on Wednesday in a Sunshine State Conference matchup. The game in Rubin Arena starts at 7:30 p.m.