LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida Southern College men's basketball (20-8, 12-6 Sunshine State) fell to the University of Tampa (15-10, 9-9 Sunshine State) in a close contest, 85-80, on Saturday night at Jenkins Field House. Florida Southern's bench contributed 28 points, but Tampa's late surge in the second half secured the win.
"We were very inconsistent tonight which resulted in a hard fought but disappointing loss to a talented Tampa team," said Mocs' head coach
Mike Donnelly. "We were not sharp. Our focus and execution must improve and I believe guys will respond and bounce back."
The game began with Florida Southern taking the floor against Tampa. Early exchanges saw FSC falling behind, but
Elijah Walsh connected on a 3-pointer at 17:37, narrowing an initial gap.
Amare Miller contributed defensively with a block and multiple rebounds, helping to keep the score within reach.
As the half progressed,
Khalil Ross and
Ameer Ramadan fueled a comeback with key baskets in the paint. The Mocs capitalized on fast-break opportunities, with
Brady Corso hitting a crucial 3-pointer to tie the score at 37 with just over two minutes remaining.
FSC closed the half on a strong note, with Corso again sinking a 3-pointer in the final seconds to secure a narrow lead. By the end of the first half, the Mocs led the Spartans 40-38.
The second half began with an impactful 3-pointer from Ramadan, boosting the Moccasins' lead momentarily. Despite turnovers and defensive challenges, Florida Southern maintained pressure, with key contributions from
Spencer Schomers and Ross, including a fast-break dunk and a series of defensive rebounds. The team's efforts kept the score close, with multiple lead changes throughout the half.
As the half progressed, FSC encountered a scoring burst from the Spartans, which pulled ahead.
Jasir Tremble and Ross provided late scoring efforts, including a crucial 3-pointer and a tip-in, narrowing the deficit. However, the Spartans capitalized on free throws, closing out the half with a lead. The half ended with the Spartans ahead, 85–80.
Miller recorded his 11th double-double of the season with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Ross led the Mocs in scoring with 17 points on 8-for-13 shooting. Walsh contributed defensively with three steals and added seven points. Schomers was effective from beyond the arc, making three 3-pointers and posting three blocks.
In their next game, Florida Southern College will travel to face Barry on Wednesday, Feb. 25. The matchup is set for 7:30 p.m. at the Health & Sports Center in Miami Shores, Florida.
