Nova Southeastern Edges Tampa in SSC Opener

TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa men's basketball team came out on the wrong end of a 65-61 decision to visiting Nova Southeastern University in its Sunshine State Conference opener. The Spartans drop to 6-4 overall and 0-1 in the SSC while NSU improves to 7-3 and 2-0 in league play.

It was a close game throughout, with neither team leading by more than six points. Overall, there were a total of 12 lead changes and five ties. The Sharks held a 30-26 halftime lead, though Tampa held the lead for the majority of the final half. Leading 62-61 with 1:43 remaining, UT allowed Nova to go on a 5-0 run to close out the game.

Fred Woods turned in a team-high 16 points and 11 rebounds for Tampa. The junior forward also added three blocks. Anthony LaBruno and Rashad Callaway each added 14 while Matt Tomaszewski had 13 for the Spartans.

Johnathan Ball registered a team-high six assists and matched LaBruno with four steals. For the game, Nova shot 48.1 percent from the field as UT came in at 31.8. Nova also outrebounded UT 46-33.

The Spartans hit the road for their first Sunshine State Conference game away from the Martinez Center when they travel to Eckerd on Wednesday. Fans may sign up for eScores, a free service that sends text message alerts to fans at the conclusion of Spartan athletic events. Please visit the official athletics website to sign up.