La Mirada, CA- A back and forth contest came down to the final six minutes where #7 Biola used a 16-3 run to beat Arizona Christian 72-61 on Saturday afternoon.  Senior Chris Sterling led all scorers with 21 points but he was the only Firestorm in double figures.

Sterling converted the first five ACU points including a three pointer sandwiched around a three for the Eagles (21-2, 7-2 GSAC) to create the first two lead changes.

Down 13-12, Senior Mishima Gray dialed in a three pointer for a brief lead.  After Biola built as large as an eight point edge (26-18), the Firestorm (13-8, 1-8 GSAC) used a 10-0 run highlighted by back-to-back three pointers from Junior Al Brown to grab a two point lead.

BU scored six of the last eight points to hold a 32-30 lead at the break.

On 4-9 first half shooting, Sterling topped everyone with 10 points.

Working through three ties in the first three minutes of the second half, baskets from Sophomore Patson Siame (who finished with three blocks), Junior Matt Willkomm, and Sterling pushed ACU back in front each time.

Again working through a few ties, ACU did not let BU moved ahead until 6:29 left.  On their next trip down the floor, Junior Andy Sessions dropped in a three ball for a 58-56 lead with 6:18 remaining.

However, Biola answered with a three pointer of their own to retake the lead – as it turned out for good as the Eagles scored the next nine points and 16 of the final 19 points.

Pounding the offensive glass (17 offensive rebounds) allowed Biola to take 11 more shots and nine more free throws to create the difference in the game.

Willkomm was the closest to Sterling with nine points for ACU.

The Firestorm will play their final non-conference game on Sunday as they stay in Southern California to face off with Shepherd (CA).  The 2:00 pm PT/ 3:00 pm AT game will be played at Glendale Community College.