WINTER PARK, Fla. (December 31, 2025) - Rollins (8-5, 2-3 SSC) closed out 2025 with a statement win in Sunshine State Conference play, overcoming a spirited Saint Leo (6-6, 1-3 SSC) squad 85-74 in front of a lively Warden Arena crowd. From the opening tip, the Tars played with urgency, setting the tone on both ends and putting pressure on the Lions to keep pace.
The first half was a showcase of Rollins' balanced attack. After trading early baskets, Rollins began to assert itself midway through the period behind crisp ball movement and energetic play in transition. A three-pointer by Omar Figueroa pushed Rollins' lead out to seven with just under eight minutes left in the half, and the Tars never looked back, heading into the locker room with a 39-27 edge. Figueroa's sharpshooting—4-of-6 from deep on the day—kept Saint Leo's defense honest all afternoon.
Saint Leo showed resilience early in the second half, cutting into the lead with a run sparked by back-to-back buckets. But Rollins answered swiftly. With the Tars clinging to a slim advantage, Jackson Gaffney knocked down a pair of jumpers to steady the ship and reignite momentum for Rollins. Shortly after, Jah Nze orchestrated a key sequence, threading the needle for a layup and converting on the ensuing possession to extend the lead and force Saint Leo to chase once again.
Inside, Ryan Renfro was dominant on the boards, securing critical rebounds and finishing strong around the rim. His relentless presence helped Rollins control the glass in the closing minutes, limiting Saint Leo's second-chance opportunities. Meanwhile, Mayson Quartlebaum provided an instant spark off the bench, scoring 11 efficient points and giving the Tars valuable depth scoring when the game tightened.Â
As the game entered its final stretch, Rollins' depth and poise became evident. The Tars maintained control by converting at the free-throw line—going 17-for-21 in the second half—and by forcing Saint Leo into tough contested shots. When Saint Leo twice pulled within six in the final five minutes, Rollins answered with crucial baskets and timely defensive stops that ultimately preserved the lead.Â
Rollins finished with three players in double figures, led by Figueroa's 22. Gaffney added 14, and Nze contributed 13. Renfro's twelve-point, twelve-rebound double-double gave him a new season high in boards. The Tars outrebounded the Lions 51-26. Â
When the final buzzer sounded, Rollins had earned an 85-74 Sunshine State Conference victory, showcasing a balanced scoring attack and a resilient second-half effort that sets an encouraging tone as conference play intensifies in the new year.
Next up for the Tars is a road match against Barry in Saturday, January 3rd. Tipoff is scheduled for 4:00 pm.Â
