January 28, 2015
Spartans Sink Buccaneers
MIAMI SHORES, Fla. - Junior Ellen Nurmi tied a career high with 26 points, to lead the University of Tampa Spartans to a 61-49 victory over the Barry Buccaneers. The victory improves the Spartans to a 12-6 overall record and 5-3 in SSC play. The Bucs drop to 10-9 overall and 2-6 in SSC play.
Nurmi scored her 26 points on 8-14 shooting from the field, including 4-8 from beyond the arc. Nurmi had previously scored 26 points on one another occasion, on February 1, 2014, also against Barry . The eight made field-goals also ties a career high, which she previously accomplished against the Buccaneers. Nurmi also added five rebounds and assists on the night.
Senior Aisha Rodney also contributed double figures for the Spartans, as she scored 16 points. Rodney also added six rebounds for UT. Junior Juliana Cavallaro added 12 points and a team high seven rebounds.
The Spartans defense played a pivotal role in the contest, as the Buccaneers were only able to shoot 35.8% (19-53) on the night. Tampa also forced 16 Barry turnovers, including 10 steals.
Kaylia Richardson led the way for Barry, as she notched 13 points and seven rebounds.
The Spartans will be home on Saturday, as they host the Nova Southeastern Sharks at 2:00 PM
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