Tampa Defeats Flagler to Sweep the Classic

Tampa, Fla – The University of Tampa Men's Basketball wrapped up the Tampa Classic tonight with a strong performance at the Bob. The Spartans took on the Flagler College.

INSIDE THE MATCHUP:

Final Score: Tampa 78, Flagler 70

Records: Tampa 9-2, Flagler 7-3

Location: Bob Martinez Center l Tampa, Fla

All-time series: This was the sixth meeting between these two programs, Tampa now leads the all-time series 4-2. 

HOW IT HAPPENED: 

FIRST HALF: Tampa opened the game with strong defensive plays, including an early defensive rebound by Tyson Leitao, setting the tone. Amarion Nimmers scored the first point of the game on a free throw, and Tampa maintained steady pressure, capitalizing on turnovers with a steal by Kaden Froebe leading to key points. Trey Lane's sharpshooting from beyond the arc gave Tampa critical momentum, including a three-pointer at 12:42 that put them ahead 15-16. De'Andre Harvey and Zach Johnson showcased effective teamwork, with Harvey scoring on an assist from Johnson to extend Tampa's lead. Leitao added to the offensive surge with a clutch three-pointer at 11:21, keeping Tampa ahead. Despite Flagler's efforts to close the gap, Nimmers hit a crucial three-pointer at 4:12 to reclaim Tampa's lead, highlighting their resilience and offensive execution in a competitive first half. 

Score: Tampa 41, Tampa 31

SECOND HALF: Tampa came out strong in the second half, quickly asserting dominance with a three-pointer from Nimmers and consistent rebounds from Leitao. Ryan Blount's steady scoring, including free throws and a crucial three-pointer, helped extend Tampa's lead early in the half. Lane and B.J. Schaeffer kept the momentum alive with critical assists and three-pointers, showcasing Tampa's teamwork. Tampa's defense forced multiple turnovers, including a key steal by Lane, which further frustrated Flagler's offense. Despite occasional missed opportunities, Tampa maintained composure, leveraging offensive rebounds to create second-chance points. By controlling the pace and responding to Flagler's surges with timely baskets, Tampa held a comfortable lead throughout, showcasing their resilience and depth

Final: Tampa 78, Flagler 70

INSIDE THE STATS:

• Lane led all Spartans with 26 points off the bench. A new career-high.
• Nimmers put up 26 points, two rebounds, two assists, and two steals.
• Leitao had 19 boards as well as nine points.

UP NEXT: The Spartans will have ten days off before being back in action on New Year's Day taking on Nova Southern in Fort Lauderdale at 7:30 PM.

Follow Us: @TampaSpartans on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram , and YouTube