Mesa, AZ- In their final tune-up before GSAC play begins next week, Arizona Christian closed out their game with Benedictine-Mesa on a 16-3 run to pull away for the 81-68 win on Saturday.  Junior Chris Sterling went for 22 points while Senior Bobby Gray cashed in 15 points.

First half action resulted in the Firestorm (10-1) holding a slight 34-31 edge over the Redhawks (4-10).

Fast forward to eight minutes remaining in the game and the teams were tied at 62-62.  At the five minute mark, the game was again tied at 65-65.

Junior Wolfgang Wood nailed a three pointer to help ACU take the lead and start to pull away.

Down the stretch, the Firestorm forced the Redhawks to foul them trying to play catch up.  ACU converted their free throws to key their 16-3 run to end the game.

Senior Brandon Newman (12 points) and Sophomore Andy Sessions (10 points) were the other two ACU players to conclude their nights in double figures.

Assistant Coach Brandon Dunson shared, "We were really proud of how our guys finished the game.  They fought and got key stops in the closing moments which sealed the victory."

Next up for the Firestorm is the beginning of Golden State Athletic Conference action as they will head to Biola in La Mirada on Saturday.  Tip-off will be 4:00 pm (PT)/ 5:00 pm (AT).