WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - The Palm Beach Atlantic men's basketball team captured an 83-73 victory over Lynn University on Saturday at the de Hoernle Sports & Cultural Center.

The Sailfish (18-3, 10-3 Sunshine State) dominated the boards, pulling down 51 rebounds, with 18 coming on the offensive end. This relentless effort was key to their success. Consistency at the charity stripe was on display as the 'Fish tallied at least 15 free throw attempts for the sixth straight game, underlining their knack for drawing fouls and capitalizing by converting on 80 percent.

Preston Le Gassick led the offense, pouring in 21 points that included four makes from beyond the arc. He also dished out six assists and claimed a season-high 9 rebounds, showcasing his all-around prowess. Christian Kirkland was a force on defense with 11 rebounds and four blocks, marking the third game in a row the team has tallied at least six blocks. Blake Wilson chipped in with 16 points and a season-high 7 rebounds, while Clay Payne was flawless, hitting all five of his shots for 10 points.

The 'Fish opened the first half with authority in the paint, racking up 16 points. Despite some early turnovers, they found their rhythm and gained momentum. Wilson was pivotal with key layups, including a crucial tip-in at 1:53 to narrow the gap to three. With Tyler Burton's jumper at 1:07, the deficit shrank to 30-31. However, the Fighting Knights answered with a 3-pointer to widen their lead. The half wrapped up with the 'Fish close behind, 34-30. The 'Fish struggled from the field in the first half, shooting 34 percent.

Taking charge in the second half, the 'Fish powered through with a 19-5 run, highlighted by Le Gassick's two 3-pointers and Kirkland's defensive prowess, which included a block followed by a layup. The 'Fish continued their rebounding dominance, grabbing 23 boards to LU's 8, which propelled their fast-break opportunities and second-chance points.

Despite Lynn's efforts to close the gap with a barrage of 3-pointers, the 'Fish maintained their offensive stride, led by key plays from Le Gassick and Payne. As the final whistle blew, PBA extended their lead to 83-73, securing a commanding win.

The 'Fish were firing on all cylinders on offense in the second half. PBA shot 63 percent from the field, including 42 percent from three and 90 percent from the free-throw line. Today's win marks PBA men's basketball's first win at Lynn since 2016.

PBA returns home for a tough matchup against Florida Southern. Tip-off in Rubin Arena is set for 7:30 p.m.