Long Beach State secured a valuable season-ending victory over Hawai’i, winning 84-75 on the road. Gavin Sykes played a pivotal role in the last moments, scoring three consecutive 3-pointers that extended a slim lead to secure the win. Despite a strong start from Hawai’i, Long Beach State managed to pull ahead with key contributions from Sykes and Shaquil Bender, maintaining a solid lead through the first half. The Rainbow Warriors rallied in the second half, momentarily taking the lead, but Sykes’s clutch performance sealed the game and marked a significant achievement for Long Beach State under challenging circumstances.
By the NumbersGavin Sykes finished with 542 total points, setting a new freshman scoring record.Sykes averaged 19.4 points per game over the season, likely ranking in the Top 10 among freshmen nationally. State of PlayLong Beach State concluded their season with a 10-21 record, finishing 6-14 in the Big West.This victory marked Long Beach State’s first win in Honolulu since 2022, and it was only their eighth win on the road against Hawai’i in program history. What’s Next
As the season wraps up, Long Beach State will look to build upon this momentum and address challenges as they prepare for the next season. There may be a focus on player development, particularly for standout freshman Sykes, with hopes of leveraging this win into a stronger overall performance in future competitions.
Bottom Line
This victory not only highlights the growth of Gavin Sykes but also provides a spark of optimism for Long Beach State moving forward. The team’s ability to secure a win against a tough opponent on the road bodes well for future seasons, reinforcing the potential for improvement and success.