Spartans Fall Short Against Sharks

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The University of Tampa Spartans Men's Basketball team was defeated in their conference opener by Sunshine State opponent Nova Southeastern University.

Final: Nova Southeastern University Sharks 91, University of Tampa Spartans 80

Records: Tampa Spartans (1-2, 0-1 SSC), Nova Southeastern Sharks (2-0, 1-0 SSC)

Location: The Rick Case Arena || Fort Lauderdale, Fla.  

All-Time Series: This marks the 43rd matchup between the two teams. Spartans trail the all-time series 19-24.

HOW IT HAPPENED  

FIRST HALF:  

The Spartans started the half with a 12-5 lead early as Max Jones would score five of the first 12 points. However, the Sharks would drain back-to-back three-pointers leveling the game 18-18 with 11 minutes left in the first half. Spartans would trail the Sharks the rest of the half as they tried to claw their way back into the game. The Sharks would then go on a 6-0 run to make it 38-30. Spartans were unable to get back within reach of the lead going into halftime. Jones would end the half with a pair of free throws for the Spartans. Score: 47-36 NSU

SECOND HALF:

The Spartans looked to bounce back after the first half, but that task looked all but inevitable. The Sharks would keep the lead and remain comfortable throughout the half, as they reached a 23 point lead which was the highest of the game. A bright spot for the Spartans was rebounding as the Spartans out-rebounded the Sharks 21-18. Mykah Brown would lead the team in scoring in the second half with nine points. Despite the effort, the game remained out of reach for the Spartans for most of the second half. Score: 91-80 NSU

INSIDE THE STATS  

• Three Spartans scored in the double digits Jones (26), Martin Lakovic (12), and De'Andre Harvey (11)
• The Sharks outscored the Spartans in the paint 42-38   

BEYOND THE BOX  

• Jones led the team in scoring with 26 points.
• Lakovic was one point shy of a double-double with nine points and 11 rebounds.  
• Tampa outscored Nova Southeastern off the bench 24-14

UP NEXT: The Spartans will return to action in St. Petersburg as they face off against Ashland in the Eckerd Thanksgiving Classic on Friday, November 26th, at 3:30 PM

GAMEDAY MULTIMEDIA: Fans may watch all home games and Sunshine State Conference contests on TampaSpartans.tv. Live stats are also available through TampaStats.com.

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