Fresno State Bulldogs men’s basketball team began its 2026-27 campaign with an 88-79 victory over the Fresno Pacific Sunbirds on November 2, 2026, at the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.
Guard Dragos Lungu led the Bulldogs with a game-high 30 points on 12-of-19 shooting in his Fresno State debut. Lungu also contributed seven rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Ross Candelino added 17 points and a team-high eight rebounds, going 8-of-10 from the free-throw line. Roger Fabrega Urpina scored 15 points and dished out four assists, including two steals and a block. Brian Amuneke contributed 11 points, while Bradey Henige posted 10 points on 5-of-6 shooting and grabbed five rebounds.
Fresno State dominated inside, outscoring Fresno Pacific 50-26 in the paint and holding a 39-31 rebounding advantage. The Bulldogs shot an efficient 55.9 percent from the field, limiting the Sunbirds to 42.6 percent shooting. The contest featured 16 ties and 26 lead changes before Fresno State pulled away by scoring 47 points in the second half to secure the nine-point win.
Fresno Pacific was led by Nick Davidson with 17 points and Brandon Gibson Jr. with 16 points. The Bulldogs executed well in their first game as members of the Pac-12 Conference.
Fresno State will next play at UC San Diego on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. PT.
CSB Take
Dragos Lungu’s strong 30-point debut provides a promising indication for Fresno State Bulldogs men’s basketball’s potential in their inaugural Pac-12 season. The team’s balanced scoring effort, combined with dominance in the paint and solid rebounding, sets a positive foundation. Maintaining offensive efficiency and controlling the boards will be crucial as Fresno State transitions to conference play. This opening victory gives the Bulldogs momentum for their 2026-27 season.
Source: Original report
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