FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Florida Southern fell to No. 4 Nova Southeastern, 104-86, on Saturday at Rick Case Arena. Florida Southern's effort included 46 points in the paint, but Nova Southeastern's 25 points off turnovers proved decisive.
"Disappointing effort which is always going to result in a disappointing loss especially against a good team like Nova," stated Mocs' head coach
Mike Donnelly. "I know we can continue to get better, so we will get back to work on Monday and prepare for our game Wednesday night at home vs Barry."
The first half opened with Nova Southeastern establishing an early lead.
Amare Miller contributed with defensive rebounds and assists, while
Elijah Walsh and
Ameer Ramadan scored early for Florida Southern. Despite these efforts, turnovers plagued the visiting team, leading to several fast-break opportunities for Nova Southeastern.
The Mocs struggled to keep pace as the Sharks capitalized with a series of scoring runs, extending their lead.
Brady Corso's successful three-pointer and
Jasir Tremble's scoring efforts provided some momentum. However, Nova Southeastern's efficient shooting and defensive pressure maintained their advantage throughout the half. The half ended with Nova Southeastern leading 59–33.
Florida Southern began the second half attempting to close the gap, highlighted by Miller's three-point play around the 18 minute mark, which trimmed Nova Southeastern's lead to 26 points. The Moccasins capitalized on several fast-break opportunities, including a layup by
Khalil Ross at 14:52, assisted by Corso, cutting further into the deficit.
As the half progressed, Tremble and Corso each contributed crucial three-pointers, helping Florida Southern outscore Nova Southeastern 53–45 in the half. Despite these efforts, Nova Southeastern managed to maintain their edge, concluding the game with a 104–86 lead.
Corso scored 26 points, including five 3-pointers, and recorded one block. Miller posted a double-double, with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Tremble added 17 points and provided three assists.
Charlie Dalton showcased defensive skills with two blocks and two steals while also adding four assists.
In their next game, Florida Southern will host Barry on Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m. The matchup will take place at George W. Jenkins Field House in Lakeland, Florida.
