Game of the Day: Florida Gulf Coast 96, Stetson 65
FGCU made a statement on Friday night, beating Stetson by 31 points and pulling within a half game of the lead in the Atlantic Sun. The Eagles forced 19 Stetson turnovers, which helped all five starters reach double figures. Remember, this is a Florida Gulf Coast team that beat now-surging Miami early in the season.
Important Outcomes
The high-scoring Iona attack struck again on Friday night. Lamont “Momo” Jones led the way with 24 points, but all five starters scored in double figures in this dominating offensive performance.
2. Loyola (Md.) 51, Manhattan 41
The win keeps the defensive-minded Greyhounds in stride with Iona and right in the race with Niagara at the top of the MAAC standings. Loyola gets the win while only shooting 39 percent from the floor.
Keeping with the MAAC theme, Niagara stays at the top of the league standings with a win over Siena. Juan’ya Green tallied a double-double of 19 points and 11 assists. Three players scored in double figures for Niagara.
Starred
1. Evan Hymes, Siena (30 points, 6 assists)
Despite the loss, Hymes had a big outing. Not only did he shoot 7-of-11 from the field, but he got to the free throw line and converted, as well. His 12-of-13 mark from the line rounded out his efficient 30-point night.
2. Lamont Jones, Iona (24 points, 4 assists)
The Arizona transfer was once again at the center of the high-powered Iona scoring attack. His 24 points paced the Gaels in a win over St. Peter’s.
3. Jordan Heath, Canisius (17 points, 13 rebounds)
Canisius first jumped onto the national radar when it beat Temple earlier in the year. Tonight, in a win over Rider, Heath’s double-double led the way.
Struggled
1. Nurideen Lindsey, Rider (4 points, fouled out)
Returning from a concussion, Lindsey was unable to find his stride Friday. He is strongest when he attacks the basket, but had just four points in a loss to Canisius.
2. Stetson handling the ball (19 turnovers)
In the night’s most one-sided game, Stetson fell to Florida Gulf Coast, 96-65. Part of the reason was Stetson’s inability to hold onto the basketball, turning it over 19 times.
3. Austin Arians, Milwaukee (0 points, 0-of-6 FG)
The struggling Panthers lost by 20 points to Green Bay and Arians struggled off the bench. He was 0-of-6 from the floor Friday.
Daniel Martin is a writer and editor at JohnnyJungle.com, covering St. John’s. You can find him on Twitter:@DanielJMartin_