MEN’S BASKETBALL: RUNNING PAST THE GAUCHOS

In the final Orange Empire Conference game of the season, No. 14 Fullerton College hosted No. 20 Saddleback College on Friday night and came out on top against the Gauchos 71-64.

FC's overall record now stands at 22-5 as they wrap up conference-play with a 3rd place of 11-5 (tied with Saddleback). Injuries have been a thorn in the team's side throughout most of the season, but the team's never-say-die attitude burned bright tonight earning them a 22-win season and a spot in the playoffs.

Fullerton flexed its defensive muscles early in the game holding Saddleback scoreless for the first 4.5 minutes, while grabbing a 10-0 lead. The Hornets did not let up pushing the lead to 35-8 by 6:13 that was capped off by a three-pointer by Devin Howlin. The Hornets kept the Gauchos off balance for the remainder of the first. FC owned a strong 40-20 lead by the break.

The Hornets came into the second half with a healthy lead against one of the toughest teams in the conference in Saddleback, and the Gauchos did not pack it in. When push came to shove, Saddleback slowly chipped its way back into the game. With 33 seconds left in the game, Fullerton's lead had evaporated to 5 points (67-62). Made free throws by Omajae Smith (5 of 6) kept the Gauchos in check as Fullerton won a critical game to end the regular season.

The Hornets had good night shooting as they hit 42.3% (11-26) from beyond the arc to Saddleback's 25%. From the floor, FC was 44.7% to the Gaucho's 45%.

Ryen Perry led the way for FC with 17 points, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds. Omajae Smith had 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, while Jacob Eyman and Ronnie Stapp dropped in 12 points each. Devin Howlin chipped in 9 points.

Up Next: The Hornets (22-5, 11-5) will wait to see who their post-season opponent will be as they gear up for the Southern California playoffs. Stay tuned!

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