MEN'S BASKETBALL: JUST OUT OF REACH... THIS TIME

Facing Orange Empire Conference rival Saddleback College for the first time this season at the Riverside Holiday Tournament, the #10S Hornets fell short against the #3S Gauchos Thursday night 65-60.

The loss lands Fullerton at 10-4 on the season, while the Saddleback win notches their record up at 10-1 overall. Their lone loss came against San Bernardino Valley College back on November 28th.

Statistically, the game was very even as both teams finished tied with 34 total rebounds, 13 turnovers, and 7 steals.

The Gauchos opened up the first half with a 12-6 lead, but FC rallied to take their first lead of the game by the 8:17 mark (22-20) on made free throws by Jesse Ghee.

Saddleback snatched the lead back holding a 30-24 lead by the end of the first half.

The Gauchos maintained their lead until 12:23 when Julian Richardson hit a three-point shot giving Fullerton a 39-38 lead.

Unfortunately, Saddleback grabbed the lead back a minute later and did not let up.

The Gauchos went on an 8-2 run and found themselves up 52-43 with six minutes left in regulation.

Relentless, the Hornets hustled their way back to come within two points (62-60) on a three-pointer by Blake McBride with 27 seconds left.

Time would not be on the Fullerton's side. With the clock winding down, last season's state champions went on to preserve their tenth win of the season.

FC's Kenny Barnes led all scorers with 18 points on the night. He also had 7 rebounds along with 3 steals. Ian Fox dropped in 14 points (10-10 free throws) with 8 rebounds. Blake McBride had 11 points with 5 rebounds and Julian Richardson scored 9 points with 3 rebounds.

Up Next: The Hornets (10-4) will play tonight in Riverside's Wheelock Gym at 5:00 pm against Riverside City College for the right to a Third Place finish in the RCC Holiday Tourney.

RCC Tourney Bracket

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