Holiday Classic Begins with Spartan Victory
TAMPA, Fla. – The University of Tampa men's basketball team put together a strong wire-to-wire performance Saturday afternoon, holding off Indianapolis for a 79–73 victory at the Bob Martinez Athletics Center, kicking off the Tampa Holiday Classic.
INSIDE THE MATCHUP
Final: Tampa 79, Indianapolis 73
Records: Tampa (6–4, 1–3 SSC), Indianapolis (5–5, 0–2 GLVC)
Location: Bob Martinez Athletics Center | Tampa, Fla.
HOW IT HAPPENED
First Half
Tampa wasted no time setting the tone, opening the game with a Trey Lane three-pointer. Camden McCormick caught fire from beyond the arc early, while also applying pressure on the glass and in the passing lanes. Kyler Lamb was active inside, securing rebounds and finishing in the paint, and the Spartans capitalized on turnovers and fast-break chances throughout the half.
The balanced attack and efficient shooting allowed Tampa to build a commanding lead, heading into the break with a 50–31 advantage.
Second Half
Ryan Blount opened the second half by establishing himself in the paint, and B.J. Schaeffer added energy in transition as Tampa looked to extend its lead. Indianapolis responded with increased offensive pressure, drawing fouls and stringing together defensive stops to cut into the deficit late.
With the game tightening in the final minutes, Tampa delivered when it mattered most. Lane knocked down crucial free throws, and a timely three-pointer from McCormick provided the final push the Spartans needed to seal the six-point win.
INSIDE THE STATS
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Camden McCormick: 25 pts, 6 reb, 2 ast
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Ryan Blount: 20 pts, 7 reb
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Trey Lane: 12 pts, 7 ast, 2 reb
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Kyler Lamb: 11 pts, 7 reb
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B.J. Schaeffer: 4 pts, 4 reb, 3 ast
TEAM STATS
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Bench Points: 31
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Field Goal Percentage: 47.0% (28–60)
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Three-Point Percentage: 35.0% (9–26)
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Free Throws: 82.4% (14–17)
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Rebounds: 38
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Points in the Paint: 28
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Fast Break Points: 16
UP NEXT
Tampa will return to play at Bob Martinez tomorrow, December 21st, facing St. Thomas Aquinas at 5 p.m. EST. to close out the Tampa Holiday Classic. After the holidays, the Spartans will resume conference play at the Bob on January 3rd at 4 p.m. EST, against Florida Tech.
