WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — In one of the biggest games in program history, the Palm Beach Atlantic men's basketball team (9-0, 4-0 Sunshine State) secured a hard-fought victory over No. 1-ranked Nova Southeastern (6-1, 3-1 Sunshine State), 88-83, on Saturday at Rubin Arena. 

No. 17-ranked PBA takes down the defending national champions for the second time this calendar year. The Sailfish defeated NSU at home last season in January. PBA is the only team to defeat NSU the last two seasons. The Sharks had two chances to tie it down the stretch, but PBA's defense stood tall. The 'Fish held the sharks to 36 percent from the field in the second half and 39 percent shooting for the game.

The Sailfish edged out the win with 46 points in the paint, including 17 points in the post from Blake Wilson. This victory marked the ninth consecutive game in which the team achieved at least 8 three-point field goals made.

Preston Le Gassick led the way with 22 points, including three 3-pointers, and added three assists and two steals. Alvin Tumblin posted a double-double with 13 points and a season-high 10 rebounds, while also contributing a block and a steal. Tyler Burton scored 12 points, connected on two 3-pointers, and recorded four assists and two steals. Graham Worland added 16 points, making three from beyond the arc, and collected seven rebounds.

The game commenced with Christian Kirkland's defensive impact, highlighted by four blocks at the rim in the first period. The team capitalized on their defensive stops, with Le Gassick hitting a 3-pointer at 18:12, assisted by Worland, which helped establish an early lead. As the half progressed, the 'Fish showcased strong offensive rebounding, with Tumblin contributing significantly with multiple putbacks.

Despite turnovers slowing momentum, the Sailfish maintained offensive efficiency, with Worland netting crucial baskets, including a jumper at 2:46 to keep them ahead. The half saw back-and-forth scoring, with the score tied multiple times. The half concluded with Burton's layup with just two seconds remaining, securing a 46-43 lead for the 'Fish at the end of the first half.

The 'Fish opened the second half with a quick layup by Le Gassick, extending their lead. Despite turnovers early in the half, Tumblin contributed effectively with a steal and an assist, maintaining momentum. Wilson's consistent presence paint, where he recorded a season-high of 7 field goals made, helped stabilize the team's efforts as NSU attempted to close the gap.

Midway through the half, the Sailfish faced a brief scoring drought, allowing the Sharks to tighten the score. However, back-to-back three-pointers from Burton and Le Gassick reignited their offensive push, reclaiming the lead. With strong defensive rebounding and timely free throws in the final minute, the 'Fish closed the half ahead, securing a 42-40 score in the second half and winning 88-83 overall.

PBA shot 53 percent from the field in the game. The 'Fish won the rebounding battle 46-40. The Sharks high pressure defense forced PBA into 20 turnovers leading to 24 points. NSU grabbed 20 offensive rebounds leading to 20 second chance points.

Tonight's win moves PBA's overall record to 9-0 with a 4-0 mark in conference play. The 'Fish were ranked No. 17 in the NABC top-25 this week and expect to move up in next week's pool, resulting in the highest ranking in program history. 

PBA hosts three games next week in Rubin Arena. The Sailfish are back in action on Monday against Warner at 7 p.m.