Spartans Offense Prevail Over Tritons

TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa women's basketball team (13-9, 6-5) defeated the Eckerd College Tritons (11-9, 6-6) by a final score of 77-63 on Saturday afternoon. The Spartans victory marked their sixth Sunshine State Conference victory on the season.

In the first half of play, the Spartans came out of the gates hot opening with an 8-2 run. Play stayed fast and consistent with the Tritons and Spartans going back and forth, eventually Tampa would pull away, leading 35-28 at the half. Tampa finished the first half shooting 13 of 24, cashing in on five three-point field goals. Eckerd shot 10 of 26, only converting on two three-point field goals. Candace Martino led the Spartans in first half scoring with 10 points.

In second half action, the Spartans kept their pace and never lost their lead, outscoring Eckerd 42-35. Tampa finished the game shooting 27 of 45 from the field, converting on 10 three-point field goals. Eckerd shot 22 of 57, hitting six three-point field goals. Elena de Alfredo led the Spartans in second half scoring with 13 points.

Candace Martino and Elena de Alfredo led the Spartans offensive production combining for 38 points, de Alfredo with 20 and Martino with 18. Martino also led the team in rebounds, grabbing eight boards. Ellen Nurmi was first in assists for Tampa dishing out six assists.

Tampa will be back in action Wednesday, February 10th, where they hit the road against the Nova Southeastern University Sharks. Tampa won their first matchup with the Sharks by a final of score of 71-45 earlier this season. The game will be played in Fort Lauderdale and is scheduled to tip off at 5:30 PM.

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