Fullerton, CA- The No. 22 Hope International University men's basketball team (21-4, 9-2 GSAC) fell to the No. 6 Arizona Christian University Firestorm (21-4, 9-2 GSAC) at home this Saturday evening in the Darling Pavilion.

The Firestorm came out strong, opening the first half with a 5-0 run. After settling into their rhythm, the Royals quickly responded tying the game at 7-7. Building on this momentum, the Royals went on a 6-0 run, fueled by two layups from Aaron Wadman and a basket from CJ Fisher, to take a 13-7 lead with 14:28 remaining in the half. The Firestorm and the Royals continued trading baskets until The Firestorm found their groove, pulling ahead with an 11-point lead at 26-15 with just eight minutes left in the first half. However, the Royals refused to back down. A run led by Jozelle Carter Jr., who recorded 10 points, along with key layups from Jonah Felix and Nick Hopkins, and four additional points from Wadman, propelled the Royals to a stunning comeback. By halftime, the Royals took the lead by one point at 32-31.

The Royals carried the momentum into the second half, opening with a three-point play from Wadman. However, the Firestorm responded quickly with a three-pointer and a free throw to tie the game at 35-35 with 17:49 left to play. The Firestorm continued to widen their lead before the Royals guard, Jozelle Carter Jr, scored a layup breaking their opponent's 7-0 run. Wadman followed with another layup, cutting the Firestorm's lead to just three points at 42-39 with 10:32 remaining. Despite their efforts, the Royals struggled to close the gap as both teams exchanged baskets. The Firestorm extended their lead to as much as nine points late in the game. With just 22 seconds on the clock, Grant Sii scored a layup bringing the Royals within four points at 66-62. However, the Royals could not regain the lead, as the Firestorm secured the win with a final score of 68-62. Aaron Wadman ended the game with 17 points and four rebounds, Jozelle Carter Jr with 12 points and 4 rebounds, and Grant Sii with 11 points and 3 steals.

The Royals continue GSAC action in Fullerton, CA as they face the Life Pacific Warriors at home in the Darling Pavilion on Wednesday, February 12th at 7:30 PM.