WINTER PARK, Fla. — Florida Southern (17-7, 9-5 Sunshine State) fell to Rollins (13-10, 7-8 Sunshine State) with a final score of 99-76 on Saturday afternoon. The Mocs recorded 32 rebounds and eight steals in the defeat at Alfond Sports Center.
The game commenced with Florida Southern setting the tempo as
Elijah Walsh sank a three-pointer assisted by
Jasir Tremble at 18:20. The Moccasins maintained competitive momentum with contributions from
Khalil Ross and
Ameer Ramadan, who facilitated scoring with key assists and defensive stops.
Charlie Dalton capitalized on a fast break at 13:18, extending Florida Southern's score to 13–10.
Midway through the half, Tremble hit consecutive three-pointers, narrowing the gap to 28–30. Defensive efforts were notable, with
Amare Miller and Walsh contributing key steals that kept the game within reach. Despite these efforts, the Tars closed the half with a scoring surge, including a late three-pointer by Jah Nze, resulting in a 41–31 lead over Florida Southern at the end of the first half.
Florida Southern started the second half with strong individual efforts, particularly from Dalton, who scored with both a layup and a jumper to keep the visitors within striking distance. Walsh contributed with a crucial 3-pointer, narrowing the gap to 47-38 early in the half. Despite these efforts, Rollins maintained its scoring pace, extending its advantage.
As the half progressed, Florida Southern continued to find the basket with Miller scoring consecutive layups and adding a free throw. However, the Tars capitalized on their offensive rebounds and fast breaks, which helped them maintain a double-digit lead. The Moccasins' attempts to reduce the deficit were met with consistent scoring from Rollins.
The half ended with Florida Southern's efforts to cut into the lead, highlighted by Ramadan's 3-pointer and Dalton's contributions from the free-throw line. Despite these efforts, the Tars finished the game leading 99-76, as they capitalized on their strong field goal percentage and bench points to secure the victory.
Dalton led the team with a career-high 22 points, converting 8 of 11 field goals and 6 of 9 free throws, while also collecting eight rebounds and recording two steals. Miller scored 12 points and registered two steals, contributing on both ends of the court.
Brady Corso added 10 points, making 5 of 6 free throws and securing four rebounds. Walsh contributed eight points, including two 3-pointers, and matched Miller with two steals.
In their next matchup, FSC will host Eckerd on Wednesday, Feb. 11, at George W. Jenkins Field House in Lakeland, Florida. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.
