
January 17, 2015
Spartans Defense Too Much For Sailfish
TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa Spartans used tough defense to pull out a 63-55 victory over the Palm Beach Atlantic Sailfish. The UT defense held the PBA offense to just 33.3% (17-of-51) shooting from the field, while causing 16 turnovers. The victory improves Tampa's record to 10-5, while Palm Beach Atlantic falls to 5-9.
Senior Jordan Davis led the way for Tampa as he recorded 26 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Davis was also five of nine from three point land.
In the first half of the contest, both teams struggled to find momentum, as the biggest lead for either team was just six, when Palm Beach Atlantic led 13-7. Both teams combined for 18 turnovers and just 11 assists. Tampa did find some momentum at the end of the half, as they were able to take a 23-18 lead going into the break.
UT held the lead for most of the second half, until 4:53 left in the game, when a Michael Simpson layup gave PBA a 44-43 lead. The Sailfish lead was short lived, as on the next possession Davis put up a three-pointer that gave the Spartans the lead for good.
The Spartans played good defense down low, as they recorded a season high six blocks. UT won the rebounding battle 36-27, while they dished out more assists, as they had 15, while PBA had 11.
Senior Eugene McCrory contributed with 11 points, and a game high seven rebounds. Matt Johnson dished out a game high seven assists.
The Spartans will be back in action on Wednesday, as they host the No. 6 ranked Florida Southern Mocs. Tip-off is set for 7:00 P.M.
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