Phoenix, AZ- On Saturday, Arizona Christian fell behind big early but came back.  However, they fell behind again and could not comeback as they lost 83-72 to Westmont.  Earning his first start of the season, Junior Torrian Epps topped ACU with 16 points.

The game opened with the Warriors (14-3, 4-0 GSAC) scoring the first seven points.  With 13 minutes to play in the first half, WC held a 21-6 edge.

But the Firestorm (12-5, 0-3 GSAC) responded with an 18-2 run to erase their deficit and move ahead 24-23.  ACU spread around the scoring wealth during the run as nobody had more than four points.  Senior Patson Siame scored those four points with a dunk and jumper in the paint.

Lead changes and ties ensued before Junior Andres Aguado connected on a three pointer for a 31-29 ACU advantage.  A late three for Westmont saw the score tied at 34-34 as the teams headed to the locker room.

Siame had an ACU high eight points at the break.  Junior Callum Lawson secured a half high eight rebounds (he reached 12 by game's end).

The second half began with both teams converting a basket.

But once again the Warriors used a run (10-2) to move ahead.  They then inflated their lead to 14 points.

Epps answered by scoring nine straight points.  A layup by Freshman Johannes Menzel closed the cap to just five points at 59-54 with 8:35 left.  Unfortunately, Westmont pulled away again to seal the win.

Behind the 16 from Epps, Siame and Senior Matt Willkomm scored 10 points each.

On Thursday, the Firestorm will find themselves in San Diego, CA, to face off with San Diego Christian at Grossmont College.  Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 pm PT/ 9:00 pm AT.