Spartans End Road Trip With Loss To Nova Southeastern

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - In its second game in as many days, The University of Tampa (13-9, 6-6 SSC) men's basketball team dropped a 76-68 decision to Nova Southeastern University (14-7, 8-4 SSC) in a Sunshine State Conference meeting.

Senior Arnaldo Abreu was one of the few bright spots for the Spartans as the forward earned his first start of the season and responded with a career effort. The Tampa native finished with a career-high 16 points to go with three rebounds in 36 minutes of action.

The first half was a see-saw battle before Nova went on a 12-5 run over the final 4:37 to take a 42-36 lead to the half.

Nova stretched its lead to double figures on the second possession of the second half and led by as many as 14 points to close off any chance of a UT comeback.

Rashad Callaway led Tampa with 17 points as the point guard also had a team-high four assists. Anthony LaBruno chipped in 16 points while Johnathan Ball grabbed a team-leading eight rebounds.

After being outrebounded by 12 boards against Barry on Saturday, the margin was 18 in favor of Nova Southeastern for the game. The Sharks also grabbed 12 offensive rebounds and outshot Tampa by a 52.6 to 44.2 percent mark.

Tampa will look to end its two-game skid on Wednesday when it travels to Saint Leo for a 7:30 p.m., matchup with the Lions. Live stats will be available through www.tampaspartans.com. 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.