Gainesville, FL- The game started out fast and furious with both teams moving the ball rapidly up and down the court. The teams exchanged baskets, with Derrick Brown quickly establishing his presence as a leading scorer for the Highlanders.  He had 11 points in the first half.  Not to be outdone on their home court, the Saints made 8 first half 3 pointers.  This would give the Saints a lead that would not be relinquished.  Tynan Becker hit an open 3 point shot as he led the team in first half scoring.  Ashton Lovette and Kevin Pazmino also hit a pair of 3 point shots helping the team to go up by 14 points before the half.

Early in the second half there were a cluster of free throws (16) as both teams attempted to establish an inside presence.  This lead to both teams getting into the double bonus unconventionally early.  Macius Trowe and Jonathan Renois each made 4 free throws as the Saints fought to maintain their lead.  However, Gordon State proved to not go away easily as Jackson Henry hit 3 threes and 5 free throws down the stretch, making him the leading scorer in the second half.  The Saints second half leading scorer was Karmello Branch with 11 points.  With 8:00 minutes left in the game, the Saints had worked to a 20 point lead and never looked back.  Chris Heard came off the bench late in the second half with a big blocked shot, followed by a monster slam off an ally-oop assisted by Karmello Branch.  This electrified the Santa Fe fans as the team went on to win 93-73.       

The Saints improve to 3-0 as they get ready to take on Andrew College tomorrow night.      

Comments from Coach Mowry

"Good home win for the Saints tonight!  I thought we defended them really well in the first half, which allowed us to take a 14 point lead into halftime. We were able to play everyone and had 12 players score. Gordon State fought hard and hurt us with their 3pt. shooting and driving to the basket in the second half. We played unselfishly and had great enthusiasm, which are strong building blocks moving forward!!  We need a good night's rest so we are ready for Andrew College tomorrow night." - Coach

Noteables

-Leading Scorers

• Trowe (15 points, 4-4 FT)
• Branch (13 points)
• Lovette (12 points)
• Pazmino (10 points)

- Bench (30 points)