LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida Southern College men's basketball (20-7, 12-5 Sunshine State) secured an 86-79 victory over Florida Tech (10-16, 6-12 Sunshine State) on Wednesday night at Jenkins Field House.
"Tonight was a challenge for us," stated Mocs head coach
Mike Donnelly. "We did a poor job on the defensive glass, and Florida Tech made us pay by capitalizing on second-chance points and also points off turnovers. But we stayed with it and guarded well in the second half to pull out a big win."
The first half opened with the Moccasins making an early statement as
Charlie Dalton assisted
Brady Corso on a three-pointer at 19:15, setting the pace for a competitive matchup. Despite the team's efforts and a balanced scoring attack, Florida Southern encountered a formidable challenge from Florida Tech, resulting in multiple lead changes throughout the half. Notable contributions came from
Amare Miller, who scored consistently in the paint, and
Elijah Walsh, who added key points from beyond the arc.
As the half progressed, FSC executed strong defensive plays, including several blocks and defensive rebounds, which helped keep the game balanced. The team managed to tie the game at 40–40 by the end of the half, maintaining a close contest and setting the stage for an intense next half.
The second half began with Corso connecting on a 3-pointer, assisted by Miller, which briefly extended the Mocs' lead. The half saw multiple lead changes, with Dalton contributing key points in the paint and
Khalil Ross adding a fastbreak layup to regain momentum. FSC managed to pull ahead with a crucial run initiated by Miller's offensive rebounds and timely scoring, including a tip-in and a dunk that energized the team.
As the half progressed, Florida Southern's defense, reinforced by a block from Ross, limited Florida Tech's scoring opportunities. In the closing minutes, Miller's consistent presence on the boards and Corso's free throws solidified FSC's advantage. The half concluded with the Mocs maintaining a strong lead, ending with an 86–79 score.
Miller finished with a double-double, scoring 19 points and collecting 12 rebounds, while also recording two steals. Ross posted 17 points, converting three 3-pointers and blocking two shots.
Jasir Tremble added 10 points and led the team with six assists. Corso contributed 16 points, hitting two shots from beyond the arc and grabbing five rebounds. Florida Southern's balanced scoring attack, with 10 three-pointers and 18 assists, proved decisive in the close contest.
In their next matchup, Florida Southern will host the University of Tampa on Saturday, Feb. 21. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. at George W. Jenkins Field House in Lakeland, Fla..
