WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.- The Palm Beach Atlantic men's basketball team secured an 88-63 victory over American International College on Thursday night at Rubin Arena as part of the PBA Holiday Hoops Classic. The Sailfish dominated in the paint with 50 points, while also registering 26 assists.

Preston Le Gassick led with 12 points and distributed nine assists. Graham Worland contributed 13 points and added five assists. Tyler Burton scored 11 points, including three 3-pointers. Clay Payne recorded nine points and blocked two shots.

The 'Fish opened the first half with efficient shooting, connecting on 19 of 30 attempts, including five 3-pointers. Worland led the charge with multiple field goals and contributed to a strong inside presence, as the team scored 24 points in the paint. Defensive efforts were highlighted by Le Gassick's five assists and Alvin Tumblin's key steals, which helped maintain momentum. 

Despite turnovers being even at seven apiece, the Sailfish' superior rebounding, with a 19-12 advantage, helped build a commanding lead. The home team closed the half with a fastbreak layup by Tumblin, extending their lead to 45-27 at the end of the first half.

The Sailfish opened the second half with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by Christian Kirkland's dunk at 19:31, assisted by Le Gassick, to maintain momentum. Burton's early 3-pointer extended the lead, and the team capitalized on fast breaks and points in the paint, with Payne contributing a dunk off a fast break at 12:55. The home team's defensive efforts, including blocks by Payne and Kollin Claridy, disrupted the visitors' attempts to close the gap.

As the half progressed, the 'Fish continued to build on their lead with efficient shooting and ball movement, demonstrated by Trent McNair's layup at 3:45. The team also excelled in rebounding, outpacing the visitors on both ends. The game ended with Palm Beach Atl. taking home the 88-63 victory.

The Sailfish return to the Rubin Arena court at the same time tomorrow against South Florida Bible College. The Rams took on Saint Leo in the contest before the Sailfish and Yellow Jackets. Saint Leo came out on top.