Tampa Upsets No. 15 Eckerd

TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa men's basketball team (7-14, 3-8) defeated the #15 Eckerd College Tritons (18-5, 9-3) by a final score of 65-52 on Saturday evening. The Spartans upset victory gave them their third Sunshine State Conference victory on the season.

In first half action, it was a defensive battle between the Spartans and Tritons, finishing the half tied at 24 points each. Tampa finished the half shooting 10 of 29, converting on three three-point field goals. Eckerd shot 7 of 28, only scoring two three-point field goals, both by Kevin Walsh. Pat Bacon led the Spartans in scoring with eight points. Austin Rettig was also strong in the first half scoring seven points and grabbing three rebounds.

In the second half of play, the Spartans played extremely aggressive and it proved enough to pull off the upset. Tampa outscored Eckerd 41-28 in the second half. Tampa finished the game shooting 26 of 57, cashing in on three three-point field goals. Eckerd finished shooting a measly 17 of 55, converting on four three-point field goals. Jaylen Taylor led the Spartans in second half scoring with 12 points.

Duke Shelton fueled the Spartans offense with 15 points, 6 rebounds, and a few huge three-point plays. Pat Bacon played a pivotal role scoring 14 points and grabbing six rebounds. Austin Rettig contributed on the offensive production scoring 13 points and dishing four assists.

Tampa will be back in action Wednesday, February 10th, on the road against the Nova Southeastern University Sharks. Tampa dropped a heartbreaker 73-69 earlier this season against the Sharks. The game is scheduled to tip off at 7:30 PM in Fort Lauderdale.

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