Spartans Defeat Mocs as Giusto Surpasses 1000 Career Points

Tampa, Fla. - The No. 20 University of Tampa Spartans dominate the Florida Southern Mocs and earn 20th win of the season.

INSIDE THE MATCHUP:

Final Score: No. 20 Tampa Spartans 76, Florida Southern Mocs 48

Records: Tampa (20-4, 11-2 SSC), Florida Southern (11-9, 4-9 SSC)

Location: Bob Martinez Athletic Center | Tampa, Fla.

All-Time: The Spartans have overall record of 44-67 against Florida Southern but have now beaten them in six straight games.

HOW IT HAPPENED:

In a game that showcased Tampa's dominance, the Spartans defeated the Mocs with a final score of 76-48. 

From the very beginning, Tampa established their dominance on the court. In the first quarter, they outscored Fla. Southern by a staggering 25-8. This early lead set the tone for the rest of the game, as Tampa continued to outperform the Mocs in every quarter.

Tampa's shooting accuracy was particularly impressive, with a field goal percentage of 58.0%. They also had a solid three-point shooting percentage of 42.9%. This efficiency allowed them to maintain a comfortable lead throughout the game.

Zoe Piller and Mya Giusto were standout players for Tampa. Piller scored 18 points, making 8 out of 10 field goal attempts. Giusto also contributed 18 points and 7 rebounds, and surpassed 1,000 career points with a 3-pointer early in the third quarter.

Defensively, Tampa was equally impressive. They managed to limit Fla. Southern's scoring opportunities and forced turnovers. The team recorded a total of 29 rebounds and 3 steals, showcasing their ability to work together and disrupt their opponents' offense.

Fla. Southern struggled to find their rhythm throughout the game. Their shooting percentage was only 37.7%, and they made just 7 out of 17 three-point attempts. Sydney Gomes was their top scorer with 13 points, but her performance was not enough to close the gap.

Overall, Tampa's dominant performance secured them a comfortable victory over Fla. Southern. The win improved Tampa's record to 20-4 for the season, with an impressive 11-2 record in the Sunshine State Conference. Fla. Southern, on the other hand, dropped to 11-9 for the season and 4-9 in the Sunshine State Conference.

INSIDE THE STATS:

• Giusto and Piller scored 18 points each
• Giusto surpassed 1,000 career points
• Giusto led the team in rebounds with 7
• Ramsey led the team in assists with 8

UP NEXT: The No. 20 University of Tampa Spartans will travel to Saint Petersburg as they take on Eckerd on Wednesday, Feb. 7, at 5:30 P.M.