Tampa Looks To Keep Rolling

TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa men's basketball team is set to open up Sunshine State Conference play with a match-up against Barry University Saturday evening at 4 p.m. held in the Health and Sports Center located in Miami Shores, Fla.

The Spartans lead the all-time series record against the Buccaneers by a 37-16 margin. The last time the conference teams met was in February of 2010 as Barry just edged Tampa in an 80-71 win. UT will look to avenge the loss and continue pushing forward in its seven game win streak- the best start since the 2001-02 season.

"The intensity is going to be higher than ever during tomorrow's game. Barry is one of the toughest places to play and they are traditionally much bigger than us, but we have really started off the year right and like our chances," says assistant coach Justin Pecka. "We are 0-0 right now in the conference and the guys are hungry for another win," adds Pecka.

Leading the Spartans this year is Division II Bulletin Preseason All-American, Rashad Callaway. The senior captain current ranks as number one in the line-up for scoring and assist's averaging 16.6 ppg and dishing out a total of 44 assist so far this year.

In a close second, junior guard Anthony Griffis racks in 13.7 ppg and is known for his defensive length and offensive explosiveness. Sophomore Callum Townsend averages 10.4 ppg and has produced the team's lone double this season scoring 24 points and grabbing 10 board in the win over Puerto Rico-Bayamon. Senior Glyn Hunter and junior Ashton Graham round out UT's starters producing solid numbers averaging 9.1 and 8.6 ppg, respectively.

Tampa looks to open up conference play in hopes to keep a magical season rolling. More motivated than ever, the squad looks to capitalize on the season's recent success and continue to push forward to be recognized both locally and nationally.