LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida Southern men's basketball (18-7, 10-5 Sunshine State) secured a decisive 106-81 victory over Eckerd (12-11, 6-10 Sunshine State) on Wednesday at Jenkins Field House. Head coach
Mike Donnelly picked up his 400th career win as a head coach between his time at Southern Connecticut (97), Post (98), and Florida Southern (205). The Moccasins capitalized on fast-break opportunities, outscoring Eckerd 27-6 in transition points.
"Great win tonight," said head coach Donnelly. "Total team effort. Really proud of our guys."
Florida Southern began the game with a confident start, as
Amare Miller hit a 3-pointer assisted by
Brady Corso. Miller continued to make an impact with a fast-break dunk shortly thereafter. The Mocs excelled in the paint, scoring 26 points compared to Eckerd's 16, and capitalized on fast-break opportunities with 11 points, widening their lead as the half continued.
Ameer Ramadan contributed significantly, adding crucial points and assists to maintain momentum. Florida Southern dominated in rebounds, securing 24 compared to Eckerd's 14, which fueled their offensive rhythm. By the close of the first half, the Moccasins held a solid lead, ending at 54-38.
Florida Southern opened the second half with a strong defensive play, as
Charlie Dalton stole the ball and
Jasir Tremble assisted Corso for a fast-break 3-pointer at 19:30. This set the tone for a productive stretch, highlighted by another 3-pointer from Tremble and a series of successful fast-break plays, extending their lead to 63–40 by 16:30.
Midway through the half,
Khalil Ross contributed a 3-pointer, and
Elijah Walsh added crucial free throws, maintaining FSC's momentum despite Eckerd's attempts to close the gap. By 12:43, the Mocs held a 74–56 advantage, continuing their efficient shooting and defensive efforts.
As the half wound down, Miller's defensive rebound led to another fast-break score, while Tremble and Corso capitalized on turnovers to further extend the lead. Florida Southern finished with a commanding 106–81 lead, closing strongly with a 3-pointer by
Raphael Tawil in the final minute.
Miller scored 24 points, recorded seven rebounds, and contributed two blocks and two steals. Tremble was perfect from the field, scoring 15 points on 6-for-6 shooting, including three 3-pointers. Ross added 19 points, making three shots from beyond the arc. Ramadan posted 15 points and dished out five assists.
Looking ahead, the Moccasins will face Embry-Riddle on Saturday, Feb. 14 at 4 p.m. The matchup will take place at the ICI Center in Daytona Beach, Florida.
