Pacific Tigers Rally to Defeat Long Beach State 69-66

The Pacific Tigers secured a narrow victory over Long Beach State, finishing the game with a score of 69-66 on March 15, 2024. The win was highlighted by strong performances from both Elias Ralph and Alexis Marmolejos, who each contributed 15 points. This win marks Pacific’s second victory of the season, bringing their record to 2-1.

In a closely contested match held in Stockton, California, Ralph also recorded nine rebounds, showcasing his all-around skills for the Tigers. Marmolejos added seven rebounds, further solidifying his presence on the court. The Beach, struggling this season with a record of 0-3, was led in scoring by Gavin Sykes, who finished with 20 points and seven rebounds. His teammate, Isaiah Lewis, also made a significant impact, scoring 14 points, while Shaquil Bender contributed 13 points and two steals.

Pacific started the game slowly, trailing 30-25 at halftime. However, the momentum shifted in the second half. A critical 10-0 run allowed the Tigers to overcome a six-point deficit, gaining the lead at 58-54 with just 4:02 remaining in the game. Ralph played a pivotal role during this run, scoring 10 points in the second half to help secure the win for Pacific.

Looking ahead, the Tigers will face CSU Fullerton in an away game on Saturday. Conversely, Long Beach State will be hosting Illinois State on Sunday, seeking their first victory of the season.

This match not only showcased the competitive spirit of both teams but also highlighted the individual talents that could play a significant role in the upcoming games. With the season still in its early stages, both teams will be looking to build on their performances as they strive for success in the coming weeks.