The Saints used a 13-0 run to take a first quarter lead but couldn't keep the momentum and trailed 32-22 at the half to St. Petersburg State College Wednesday night.

"We missed too many layups and we have been emphasizing finishing around the rim," said Saints head coach Chanda Stebbins. "This is definitely an area we need to do a better job at to win close games."

SF (7-7) opened the third quarter on a 11-4 run and led 47-45 heading into the fourth quarter.

The two team swapped baskets through most of the fourth quarter with the Saints up 62-60 with four minutes to play.

The Titans (13-3) outscored the Saints 9-2 over the next three minutes but the Saints had a chance to tie at the buzzer only to see a 3-popinter rim out. 

"I am really proud of this teams fight and effort," said Stebbins. "There were times when we could have closed shop with so many key players fouling out but I really liked how hard we fought and we had a look to send it to OT." 

The Saints will enjoy a holiday break until returning to action on Dec. 28 when they take on Florida Southwestern State  in Fort Myers. The Buccaneers are presently ranked fourth in the state and 13^th nationally.

"We will take a break and enjoy our families and the holidays before getting back to working on improving each day," said Stebbins.

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