Gainesville, FL.- The #23 ranked team in the country (NJCAA) left Gainesville with a victory over the Saints Saturday evening. The Saints shot the ball well and kept the score close during the first half but were outscored during the second half. Though the Titans were victorious, the Saints led the game for the majority of the first half scoring a total of 43 points. The Titans dominated the second half outscoring the Saints 47-36. 

How It Happened: 

The Titans began the game by jumping out with a score of 8-2.  Kevin Pazmino began to dominate the court scoring five 3 pointers in the first half, giving the Saints control and taking back the lead. The Titans were able to take back the lead after a 3 pointer by AJ Walker late in the first half. The first half of the game was a back and forth struggle between the two teams but AJ Walker's second 3 pointer solidified the Titans lead going into the second half (45-43).

Leading the way for the Saints in the second half, Karmello Branch and Ashton Lovette scored a combined 17 points. The second half of the game remained close but as the Titans began to pull away Tre Munson hit a 3 pointer just before time expired on the shot clock putting the score at 59-58 (Titans). At the 12:49 mark, Macius Trowe hit two free throws allowing the Saints to take back the lead. The Titans then went on an 8 point run with just under 11 minutes left in the game. From there, the Titans did not look back and continued to increase their lead late into the second half. It was a valiant effort by the Saints but the Titans were able to hold onto the lead as they went on to win 92-79. 

Quote From Coach Mowry:

"It was a hard fought game by both teams today. Eastern Florida is a top 25 team in the country and they played like it. We played a great first half offensively, really shared the ball and shot it well. We didn't shoot quite as well in the second half, but continued to battle on both ends. We needed to be better on defense in both halves to come out on top against such a good team. I'm really pleased with our effort throughout the game. We'll watch film, learn and turn the page to get ready for Hillsborough CC on Wednesday." 

Up Next:

The Saints will face Hillsborough Community College on Wednesday January 17th @7pm in Tampa.