LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida Southern College (19-6, 13-5 SSC) edged the University of Tampa (17-10, 12-6 SSC), 65-62, at Jenkins Field House, securing the victory with 32 points in the paint. This is the first win against the Spartans in the
Megan Dzikas '12 era.
Sydney Gomes led the scoring with 27 points, including three 3-pointers, and recorded six rebounds.
Nia Blocton added 15 points and contributed three steals.
Lily Randgaard made an impact on defense with three blocks and two steals.
Carlota Gomez Alonso recorded eight rebounds and added 10 points, including a perfect three-for-three from the free-throw line.
The Moccasins initiated the game with effective defensive pressure, converting three turnovers into points, which included a fast-break three-pointer by Gomes. The team maintained a balanced attack in the paint, matching the Spartans' scoring efforts with 10 points. Blocton contributed significantly with a successful tip-in and a free throw.
As the quarter progressed, the Moccasins' offensive efforts included two three-pointers and timely assists, keeping the contest evenly matched. Despite a late jumper by Blocton assisted by Gomez Alonso, the first quarter concluded with the teams tied at 17-17, setting the stage for a competitive next quarter.
Florida Southern shifted the momentum in the second quarter with a strategic run, starting with Blocton's layup at 8:13, assisted by Randgaard. The team capitalized on turnovers, securing key steals by
Gianna Vos and Gomez Alonso. Gomes contributed significantly with a fast-break layup at 5:29 and a pivotal 3-pointer at 0:54, extending FSC's lead.
Despite the Spartans' attempts to counter, including a 3-pointer from Brooklynn Butler, the Mocs maintained control. The quarter closed with FSC leading 38–33, reflecting a strong defensive performance and efficient scoring drives.
The third quarter started with a pivotal moment as
Lily Pereira hit a three-pointer at 8:20, assisted by
Monica Balistrere, pushing the home team's lead. Gomes capitalized on a technical foul by Tampa with two successful free throws, extending the gap further. Defensive efforts were highlighted by Randgaard's steal and subsequent assist to Gomes for a fast-break jumper at 5:39.
Florida Southern maintained control throughout the quarter, with Blocton's defensive and offensive rebounds leading to a tip-in, further distancing them from the Spartans. The quarter concluded with a three-pointer by Gomes at 0:51, bringing the score to 54-44 in favor of the Mocs. The home team outscored Tampa 16-11 in the quarter, maintaining a commanding lead heading into the final frame.
Florida Southern began the fourth quarter by maintaining its lead despite turnovers. Blocton scored a layup early, but Tampa's Ryan Franklin quickly responded with a layup of his own, assisted by Alanis Diaz. The teams exchanged baskets, with Gomez Alonso hitting a 3-pointer at 7:12, and Gomes contributing significantly with a layup and a jumper to extend the lead.
Tampa closed the gap through free throws and a 3-pointer by Amy Thompson, cutting the deficit. However, Gomes continued to impact the game with a layup at the 18-second mark, keeping Florida Southern ahead. Despite a late layup by Franklin that narrowed the margin, the Mocs held on, leading 65-62. The quarter ended with a defensive stop by Randgaard, as Florida Southern secured the victory with a final score of 65-62.
Looking ahead, the Moccasins will face Barry on Wednesday, Feb. 25. The game is set to tip off at 5:30 p.m., with Florida Southern taking on the role of the visiting team.
