MIAMI SHORES, Fla. — The Palm Beach Atlantic men's basketball team (8-0, 3-0 Sunshine State) secured an 85-76 victory over Barry University (4-4, 1-2 Sunshine State) on Saturday at the Health & Sports Center. 

PBA led by as many as 28 points in the game, but the Bucs kept fighting. The hosts fought all the way back to take the lead with eight minutes left to play. Some stout defense from PBA at the end of the game resulted in Barry making just two of its last 16 field goal attempts as the 'Fish pulled away late.

The Sailfish led with 40 points in the paint and recorded seven blocks, contributing to their win. Notably, the team recorded a season-high 21 free throws made, which was crucial in maintaining their lead down the stretch.

Preston Le Gassick scored 25 points, converting 9-of-11 free throws and adding three assists. Alvin Tumblin Jr. recorded 12 points, making 5-of-10 field goal attempts and collecting six rebounds. Tyler Burton contributed nine points, sinking three 3-pointers and registering two steals. Jakob Hester tallied a season-high 13 points, hitting 5-of-6 shots from the field and blocking two shots.

The 'Fish began the first half with a strong offensive display, quickly establishing a 15–0 lead. Burton and Le Gassick connected on multiple three-point attempts, contributing to an early scoring surge. BarryU took a timeout at 17:27, but the 'Fish continued to dominate, extending their advantage to 24–4 midway through the half.

The visiting team effectively controlled the boards, out-rebounding the Bucs 27–14. Tumblin and Hester added points in the paint, maintaining the 'Fish momentum. Despite some resistance from BarryU, including a late three-pointer by Deon Perry, the 'Fish closed the half with a commanding 50–26 lead.

The 'Fish opened the second half with a noticeable offensive surge. Christian Kirkland and Le Gassick were instrumental, contributing key baskets that maintained their lead. Burton's defensive efforts, including a steal, helped keep BarryU's scoring in check early on.

As the half progressed, the 'Fish cooled off from the field. Barry strung together some stops and turned defense into offense, scoring 41 points in the first 11 minutes of the second period. Le Gassick was big down the stretch, finishing with 20 points in the period, helping the 'Fish regain the lead and stay ahead.

In the final minutes, the 'Fish extended their lead through a combination of free throws and timely defensive stops. They ended the half firmly ahead, with a score of 85–76, securing a decisive victory.

PBA held Barry to 35 percent shooting in the game, including 23 percent from beyond the arc on 30 attempts. Barry held an advantage in second-chance points, 12-8.

The Sailfish compete again on Dec. 13 when they host No. 1-ranked Nova Southeastern. The game in Rubin Arena takes place at 4:00 p.m.