WINTER PARK, Fla. (January 4, 2023) - The Rollins Tars had an up-and-down game against Nova Southeastern on Wednesday, eventually falling to the Sharks by a score of 66-58. The loss moves Rollins to 6-7 (1-5 SSC) on the year, while Nova Southeastern improves to 13-1 (5-1 SSC).
The Tars were in control in the first quarter, playing solid defense and getting good looks on offense.
Lucy Leen connected on a pair of threes early, followed by makes from
Aaliyah Irizarry-Perez and
Claire Erickson to give Rollins a 10-7 lead. Erickson would add two more makes before the end of the quarter, which the Tars won 16-13.
Nova Southeastern adjusted in the second quarter, and showed why they sit atop the SSC standings. A 14-0 run to start the quarter deflated the Tars' momentum, and gave the Sharks a double digit lead. Still, Rollins showed some fight and were able to claw back in with makes from Irizarry and
Shannelle Heredia. After a
Kymora Westerfield three brought Rollins within four, the Sharks ended the half with four points in the final minute to lead at half, 37-29. the Tars shot 46% from the field in the first half.
The third quarter was tough for the home team as they were outscored 17-7.
Erin Leigh and Leen connected on back-to-back possession to make it a five-point game at one point, but a four-minute cold streak halted the Tars run. Nova's Maddie Frederick was dominant, both scoring the ball and distributing to open teammates to help the Sharks stake a 54-36 advantage through three.
Once again, the Tars did not give up. The fourth quarter was possibly some of the best basketball they have played all season. they converted 9-16 shots form the field (52%) and perfect at the free-throw line in the final frame. Irizarry was a force down low, and the recipient of a number of solid passes from her wings, leading to six points in the quarter. Though Rollins outscored Nova Southeastern 22-12 in the fourth, it was not enough as the Sharks took the game 66-58.
Irizarry-Perez had her second straight double-double with 12 points and 10 boards. Leen and Leigh each chipped in 11 points as well.
Next up for Rollins is a road matchup at Tampa on Saturday, January 7. Tipoff is scheduled for 2:00 pm.
