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FGCU Clinches ASUN Tournament Berth with Convincing
Victory over UNF
February 28, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - The University of North Florida Men's basketball team lost to Florida Gulf Coast University, as FGCU secured their ticket to the ASUN Conference Championship with a dominant 79-60 victory on February 28th, 2024. The win not only propelled them into the playoffs but also served as sweet revenge for a previous loss to UNF this season.
Nate Lliteras, UNF
Jake van der Heijden, UNF, guarding Cyrus Largie, FGCU
The Eagles (13-17, 7-8 ASUN) soared out of the gate, establishing an early lead thanks to the sharpshooting of Isaiah Thompson. He knocked down a career-high eight three-pointers, finishing with a game-high 26 points. FGCU's defense also clamped down on UNF, limiting the Ospreys to just 31 points in the first half.
UNF was led by the scoring efforts of Chaz Lanier and Jah Nze, who each chipped in 14 points. But the Eagle's offense was too much for the Ospreys, with FGCU shooting a sizzling 51.7% from beyond the arc. For its part, UNF could manage only 36.4% from the field and a paltry 28.6% from three-point land.
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Unlike the first game between the two teams this year that saw UNF (15-15, 8-7 ASUN) lead for almost the duration, the Eagles never trailed Wednesday night as FGCU started on a 9-2 run and never looked back. The Eagles connected on nine 3-pointers as a team in the first half en route to a 39-31 lead at halftime.
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For FGCU, this win was a culmination of a season characterized by resilience and determination. Coach Pat Chambers celebrated his team's achievement, stating, "We did a great job getting stops. We got good opportunities in transition."
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For UNF, Lanier continued his streak of scoring in double figures in every ASUN game this season, while Nze has reached double figures in three of his last four games since taking over a key role in the rotation. Despite their efforts, the Ospreys have lost their last three home games and need to turn things around quickly as the ASUN Conference tournament is fast approaching.
North Florida will finish up the regular season hosting senior night against Stetson this Friday, March 1, with tip-off set for 7 p.m. at UNF Arena.
Key Stats:
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UNF
Chaz Lanier | 14 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds
Jah Nze | 14 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists
Dorian James | 10 points, 5 rebounds
FGCU
Isaiah Thompson | 26 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals
Dallion Johnson | 12 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists
Zach Anderson | 11 points, 4 assists, 2 rebounds
Cyrus Largie | 10 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists
Zach Anderson, FGCU
Sunshine Showdown: Inaugural Jacksonville College Baseball Classic Heats Up the Diamond
Virginia Cavaliers baseball sweeps the Jacksonville College Baseball Classic
February 27, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - The Sunshine State sizzled with excitement last weekend as the inaugural Jacksonville College Baseball Classic took center stage at 121 Financial Ballpark. From February 23rd to 25th, 2024, four of the nation's top college baseball programs, Auburn University, the University of Iowa, the University of Virginia, and Wichita State University, battled it out for bragging rights in this prestigious new tournament.
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The inaugural competition proved to be a success, drawing enthusiastic crowds eager to witness top-tier collegiate baseball. Fans were treated to a showcase of athleticism, strategy, and clutch plays.
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The tournament saw Virginia emerge victorious, capping off an impressive weekend with a 6-4 win over Auburn in the championship game. Sophomore standout Kevin Jaxel earned the win for the Cavaliers, pitching a dominant seven innings and allowing just three runs.
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However, the tournament wasn't just about crowning a champion. Each team showcased their strengths and provided glimpses of what they can achieve in the upcoming season. Auburn's powerful offense, led by Sonny DiChiara, kept them in contention throughout the tournament. The University of Iowa displayed resilience and grit, pushing Virginia to extra innings in their semifinal matchup. And Wichita State's pitching staff, anchored by Connor McKiernan, proved to be a force to be reckoned with.
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Beyond the on-field action, the Jacksonville College Baseball Classic served as a platform to connect the community with the excitement of college baseball. The event featured family-friendly activities, interactive fan engagement experiences and opportunities to meet players and coaches.
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With its inaugural success, the Jacksonville College Baseball Classic promises to become a major draw in the city's sporting calendar. It offers fans a taste of high-level collegiate baseball, provides valuable experiences for the participating teams, and contributes to the city's vibrant sports culture. As the sun sets on the first edition of the tournament, one thing is certain: the future of the Jacksonville College Baseball Classic is bright, and baseball fans in Jacksonville eagerly await the next chapter of this exciting event.
UNF Men's Basketball Falls to Central Arkansas in Spring Homecoming Game
February 10, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - The University of North Florida Men's basketball team lost a dramatic ASUN conference battle to the Central Arkansas Bears (9-18, 5-6) on Saturday afternoon at UNF Arena. The Ospreys (13-14, 6-5) fell by a narrow 79-77 margin, marking their third loss in a row. The win marks the Bears' second consecutive victory over UNF and keeps their ASUN playoff hopes alive.
Above, Chaz Lanier of UNF. Below, Nate Lliteras, UNF
The Bears had all five starters in double figures and shot 51.6 percent from the field to knock off third-place North Florida. The Bears made six free throws in the final 38 seconds and made a critical defensive stop as time expired. UCA shot 8 of 11 at the free throw line, including several crucial ones down the stretch.
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The Bears trailed 45-41 at halftime after the Ospreys made eight three-pointers in the opening 20 minutes. But UCA's defense forced UNF into 34.6-percent shooting and 5 of 19 from three-point range during the second half.
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UCA used a 9-0 run to grab a 71-65 lead with 2:22 remaining. From there, both the Ospreys and the Bears sank four straight free throws. The Bears then pushed the lead back to 79-74 with a pair of free throws with 20.8 on the clock.
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UNF's Chaz Lanier, the second-leading scorer in the ASUN, led the Ospreys with 21 points, including a three-pointer to close the gap to 79-77 with 13.3 left. UCA missed two free throws with 11.4 to play, with Lanier rebounding the second miss. On the other end, he drove the baseline trying to tie the score as time expired, but was denied on a short baseline jumper. A UNF tip-in came after the buzzer, as confirmed after a quick video review by the referees.
Next up, the men's team travels to Charlotte, North Carolina to face off against Queens University on Friday, Feb. 14. Tip-off is at 7 pm.
Key Stats:
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UNF
Chaz Lanier | 21 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists
Nate Lliteras | 16 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals
Oscar Berry | 13 points, 4 rebounds
Jake van der Heijden | 12 points, 5 rebounds
UCA
Elias Cato | 14 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists
Masai Olowokere | 14 points, 2 rebounds
Tucker Anderson | 12 points, 7 rebounds
Chaz Lanier, University of North Florida
University of North Florida Men's Tennis Defeats South Carolina State, 5-2
February 3, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - The University of North Florida Men's tennis team (1-2) took on the South Carolina State Bulldogs (o-1) on Saturday, and came away with a 5-2 victory at the UNF Tennis Complex. This was the first home match for the team, which saw two medical retirements during the singles sessions, one by UNF and one by SC State.
The Ospreys earned the first point of the match with a win in doubles. Jonas Hartenstein and Andreas Scott prevailed 6-3 over the Bulldogs Aissa Benchakroun and Behamin Niv, while UNF's Juan Pablo Cenoz and PJ Kotanfollowed followed up with a win at 6-4 over SC State's Novak Novakovic and Mikalai Bankou. With the Ospreys' taking the second doubles match, the match on the final court remained unfinished.
The two medical retirements resulted in Kotan getting a win for UNF after his opponent, Bejamin Niv, retired with the score 6-2, 1-0, while UNF's Cenoz, an Argentine native, was forced to retire from his singles match with the scored tied 4-4 in the first set. After the two medical retirements, the Ospreys were up 2-1 with all other matches still underway.
The Ospreys won three of the four remaining matches in just two sets, one of which was won by freshman Chase Healey playing in his first match at the college level. Healey beat the Bulldogs' Gabriel Johnson playing in the No. 6 position. The UNF freshman, a native of St. Augustine, came out on top in both his singles and doubles matches. The full results of all matches are shown below.
Next up, the men's team travels to Starkville, Miss., to face off against Mississippi State on Friday, Feb. 9.
Jonas Hartenstein, UNF, playing against NovaK Novakovic of SC State
SINGLES​
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Jonas Hartenstein (UNF) def. Novak Novakovic (SCSU) 6-4, 7-5
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Mikalai Bankou (SCSU) def. Juan Pablo Cenoz (UNF) 4-4, Retirement
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Aissa Benchakroun (SCSU) def. Andreas Scott (UNF) 7-5, 1-6, 6-3
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PJ Kotan (UNF) def. Benjamin Niv (SCSU) 6-2, 1-0, Retirement
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Breno Marques (UNF) def. Ivan Pauliuchenka (SCSU) 6-1, 6-4
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Chase Healey (UNF) def. Gabriel Johnson (SCSU) 7-5, 6-1
DOUBLES
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Jonas Hartenstein/Andreas Scott (UNF) def. Aissa Benchakroun/Bejamin Niv (SCSU) 6-3
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Juan Pablo Cenoz/PJ Kotan (UNF) def. Novak Novakovic/Mikalai Bankou (SCSU) 6-4
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Breno Marques/Chase Healey (UNF) vs. Ivan Pauliuchenka/Gabriel Johnson (SCSU)​
Chase Healey, UNF, serving against SC State's Garbriel Johnson
North Florida Men's Basketball Team Holds On to Defeat Lipscomb University, 85-76
January 31, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - The University of North Florida Men's basketball team held on to win in an exciting matchup with Lipscomb University on Wednesday. UNF Arena witnessed a high-intensity clash that kept fans engaged throughout the game. The Ospreys jumped out to an early 8-0 lead, but Lipscomb was able to close the gap to 11-7 and then draw even at 11-11 on back-t0-back field goals by Dylan Faulkner and AJ McGinnis. The game then went back and forth for most of the first half, with UNF stretching it out to an eight point lead at halftime. The score was tied 4 times during the first half, with 6 lead changes.
Dorian James, UNF, scoring over Dylan Faulkner, Lipscomb University
UNF's Nate LlIteras guarding Lipscomb's Will Pruitt
Less than 6 minutes into the second half the Ospreys opened up a 16 point lead on two free throws by Jaylen Smith. But Lipscomb was able to draw within six with under five minutes to play, then further narrowed the deficit to five points with just under a minute left in the game.
But excellent free throw shooting kept UNF ahead, as the Ospreys went 21-23 from the free throw line for the game (91.3%). Balanced scoring for North Florida resulted in four players in double digits, while excellent ball handling by Smith, their freshman point guard, contributed to the win. Smith ended up with just two turnovers for the game before fouling out with under a minute to play.
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The Ospreys have two players who have scored double digits in every conference game this season: Chaz Lanier, who scored 23 points against Lipscomb and Nate Lliteras, who scored 19 points to go with his game-leading nine rebounds.
With the win, UNF moves to 13-10 overall and 6-2 in the ASUN Conference. That's good enough for sole possession of second place. Next up, the team travels to Clarksville, TN to take on Austin Pea on Saturday, February 3rd. The game begins at 5:15 p.m. and can be seen on ESPN+.
​Key Stats:
UNF
Chaz Lanier | 23 points, 3 rebounds
Nate Lliteras | 19 points, 9 rebounds
Dorian James | 17 points, 5 rebounds
Jasai Miles | 15 points, 4 rebounds
LIP
A.J. McGinnis | 20 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists
Derrin Boyd | 15 points, 4 rebounds
Will Pruitt | 14 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assist
Jasai Miles, UNF, guarding AJ McGinnis of Lipscomb University
North Florida Women's Tennis Team Prevails in Thrilling 4-3 Victory over Elon University
January 28, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - The University of North Florida women's tennis team came away with a hard-fought home court victory on Saturday, edging out Elon University in a nail-biting 4-3 finish. After taking the doubles point in the opening round, UNF clinched the match with a win in a final set tiebreaker in the last singles match of the day.
Kendall Nash, UNF, in the decisive final match victory against Elon University's Miray Konar 7-6 (5), 5-7, 7-6 (4)
North Florida earned the doubles point with wins by the teams of Kendall Nash/Anslee Long over Mariana Reding/Madison in the No. 2 spot, and Alisa Lyshko/Jasmin Makela over Ella Suk/Miray Konar in the No. 3 spot. The No.1 doubles match went unfinished.
The first singles match to finish saw Elon's Mariana Reding get the win at 6-3, 6-4 in No. 5 singles against Sofia Snitko. Mariana's sister, Lizette Reding, then put Elon ahead 2-1 with a straight sets win against UNF's Long on the No. 2 court.
UNF then got on the board in No. 1 singles with a win by Amy Kaplan over Elon's Sibel Tanik, 6-4, 6-4. With the match then tied at 2-2, Helen Sarikulaya prevailed in an up and down three-set victory against UNF's Lyshko (6-0, 1-6, 6-3) to put Elon back in front, 3-2.
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Makela earned a point for UNF with a win over Elon's Ella Suk, 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, playing in the No. 6 position, leaving one match - the No. 3 spot - yet to finish and the score tied 3-3. That match saw Elon's Miray Konar come from a set down to win the second set against Nash, taking the match to a decisive third set.
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Konar went up an early break but Nash came back to force a tiebreak, which she won 7-4 to secure the win for North Florida. It was the second tie-break of the match, both won by Nash in a gritty performance by the Jacksonville native.
Amy Kaplan, UNF, in her win against Elon University's Sibel Tanik 6-4, 6-4
For UNF, the win keeps the momentum going as they move to 3-1 overall on the season. Next up, the team travels to Tampa to take on the University of South Florida on Saturday, February 3rd. The match begins at 11 a.m.
​Key Takeaways:
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The doubles pair of Kendall Nash and Anslee Long move to 4-0 on the season.
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Amy Kaplan made her first start in the singles' No. 1 position in her UNF career.
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Kendall Nash picked up her first singles win of the year and her 30th career win as an Osprey.
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Sunday was the first ever matchup between UNF and Elon, with North Florida off to a 1-0 start.
Jasmin Makela, UNF, in her win against Elon University's Ella Suk 3-6, 6-3, 6-2
North Florida Men Defeat Queens University with an Impressive Offensive Display
January 20, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - UNF Arena became a nest of jubilant fans, as the University of North Florida Ospreys (11-9, 4-1) came away with a decisive 91-75 victory over the visiting Queens University Royals (7-13, 1-4). From the opening tip-off, UNF exhibited an unrelenting offensive, leaving the Royals trailing the entire game.
Chaz Lanier, UNF Ospreys
Nate Lliteras, UNF Ospreys
Chaz Lanier, UNF Ospreys
Chaz Lanier once again led the Ospreys with his inside and outside scoring, dropping a game-high 20 points. His smooth three-pointers and acrobatic layups kept the crowd entertained. Nate Lliteras and Dorian James contributed 15 and 14 points, respectively.
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The Ospreys didn't just bring their A game on offense; their defense was solid as well. Lliteras anchored the paint with eight rebounds, while James pulled down six. The team's relentless hustle disrupted passing lanes and forced 13 turnovers. This stifling defense kept the Royals from finding their rhythm, holding them to under 50% field goal percentage.
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UNF's dominance went beyond individual stats. Their teamwork was a showcase of precise passes, synchronized cuts and finding the open man. The team's offensive display showcased the chemistry forged through Coach Matt Driscoll's disciplined coaching.
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The victory wasn't just another notch on the win column. With this win, head coach Matthew Driscoll and his coaching staff are now the winningest coaching staff in ASUN history, with 228 wins.
The Ospreys remain tied for the second spot in the conference with Kennesaw State. Their relentless offense, suffocating defense, and determination to keep improving paint a picture of a team hungry for bigger successes. Queens, despite fighting valiantly, couldn't keep pace with the Osprey onslaught, and the deficit in skill and experience was evident.
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For UNF, the win keeps the momentum going as they move into the heart of the ASUN season. With a well-oiled offense, a stingy defense and a team brimming with confidence, the Ospreys seem poised to continue their run. At this point in the season it appears a safe bet they'll go deep into the post-season ASUN tournament and potentially beyond.
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Key Stats:
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University of North Florida
Chaz Lanier | 20 points, 5 rebounds
Nate Llateras | 15 points, 8 rebounds
Dorian James | 14 points, 6 rebounds
Jaylen Smith | 8 points, 5 assists
Queens University
Deyton Albury | 26 points, 6 rebounds
Bryce Cash | 18 points, 4 rebounds
AJ McKee | 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assist
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Looking Ahead:
The Ospreys next travel to Louisville, Kentucky
to take on the Bellarmine Knights on Thursday,
January 25th. Game time is 6:30 pm.
North Florida Ospreys Head Coach Matt Driscoll with Max Hrdlicka
Dolphins Come Up Short In Nail Biter against Kennesaw State
January 21, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - Swisher Gymnasium in Jacksonville was awash in anticipation for yesterday's matchup between the Jacksonville University Dolphins (10-9,1-4) and the Kennesaw State Owls (13-6,4-1). Both teams, hungry for victories in a very competitive ASUN conference, promised a battle of grit and determination. And they delivered, as the Owls escaped with a win on the road, 83-79, that wasn't decided until the last few seconds of the game.
Robert McCray, Jacksonville U.
Stephon Payne, Jacksonville U.
Gyasi Powell, Jacksonville U.
The game unfolded as a back-and-forth thriller, with neither team able to establish significant control. Lead changes came often, with the score tied seven different times. The Dolphins were able to hang in, riding on the scoring prowess of Gyasi Powell (20 points) and Robert McCray V (17 points), while the Owls countered with balanced attacks from Simeon Cottle (18 points), Desmond Robinson (11 points) and three others with 8 points each. The loss moved the Dolphins to 1-4 in divisional play
The intensity mounted as the clock ticked down, with each possession feeling like a mini-war. Donovan Rivers emerged as a defensive force for the Dolphins, swatting away a career-high three blocks, keeping the Owls inside game at bay for much of the game.
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Yet, despite a tremendous effort, the Dolphins couldn't find the final push to secure the victory. Clutch free throws from KSU in the closing seconds sealed their fate, allowing Kennesaw to come away with the victory.
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While the result stung, there were silver linings for the Dolphins. Powell's career-high scoring performance and McCray consistent offensive presence are promising signs. The team's defensive tenacity throughout the game kept the game close until the final seconds.
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While falling the 1 and 4 in the conference, the Dolphins' nonetheless showed their ability to compete with the best in the ASUN conference, holding their own against the first-place Owls (tied with the University of North Florida at 4-1). The Dolphins possess a potent offense, hitting over 50 percent from behind the arc yesterday, and a gritty defense, ingredients necessary for success in this competitive conference. However, capitalizing on opportunities and finding that last-minute spark will be crucial for securing victories in their upcoming ASUN contests.
Key Stats:
Jacksonville University
Gyasi Powell | 20 points, 3 rebounds
Robert McCray | 17 points, 2 rebounds
DeeJuan Pruit | 11 points, 5 rebounds
Jarius Cook | 10 points, 4 rebounds
Kennesaw State
Simeon Cottle | 20 points, 3 rebounds
Demond Robinson | 11 points, 8 rebounds
Jusaun Holt | 8 points, 2 rebounds, 2
Terrell Burden | 8 points, 5 assists
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Looking Ahead:
The Dolphins next travel to Richmond, Kentucky to take on the Eastern Kentucky Colonels on Thursday, January 25th. Game time is 7 pm.
Double Dose of Delight: Ospreys Soar, Coach Driscoll Makes History in Victory over Kennesaw State
January 18, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - The University of North Florida Osprey nest erupted in jubilation, as their men's basketball team (10-9, 3-1) soared to victory over the Kennesaw State Owls, 84-75 (12-6, 3-1). But the win wasn't just about securing a crucial win against an ASUN opponent and earning a tie for second place in the conference. It was a night etched in Osprey history as the coaching staff, led by Coach Matt Driscoll, tied the mark for the most wins in ASUN history and the team notched its 250th win at UNF Arena.
UNF dominated from the tip-off, with Chaz Lanier throwing in a career high 25 points to go with his 6 rebounds and 4 assists. The Ospreys had three other players in double figures; Jake van der Heijden adddc 17 points and Dorian James and Nate Lliteras each contributed 12. Meanwhile, the Ospreys' smothering defense kept Kennesaw State at bay, holding their leading scorer, Terrell Burden, to just two points. The Owls, for their part, also had four players in double figures, with Simeon Cottle matching Lanier's game high 25 points.
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The win over Kennesaw State served as a potent reminder of what Coach Driscoll has built at UNF. He has instilled a culture of hard work, resilience, and unity, turning a fledgling Division I program into a consistent ASUN contender. And on this historic night, achieving 250 home wins and the most wins in ASUN history, Coach Driscoll cemented his legacy as an Osprey legend.
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The future looks bright this season for Coach Driscoll and his Ospreys, as they sit in a tie with Kennesaw State for second place. With a talent-laden roster, they are poised to continue their upward trajectory, fueled by the confidence of recent victories and the inspiration of their coach's remarkable achievements.
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So expect exciting things as the season continues to unfold at UNF Arena. Under Coach Driscoll's guidance, the Ospreys appear ready to keep the momentum going as the Ospreys continue to find their rhythm. The future of UNF basketball is indeed bright, as history was made on this January night in Jacksonville.
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Key Stats:
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North Florida
Chaz Lanier | 25 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists
Jake van der Heijden | 17 points, 4 rebounds
Dorian James | 12 points, 4 rebounds
Nate Lliteras | 12 points, 3 rebounds
Kennesaw State
Simeon Cottle | 25 points, 4 steals, 2 assists
Quincy Ademokoya | 14 points, 6 rebounds
RJ Johnson | 10 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists
Jamel King | 10 points, 2 rebounds
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Looking Ahead:
The UNF men will look to maintain their momentum as they take on Queens University of Charlotte on Saturday, January 20th at home in another critical ASUN conference game. Game time is 5 pm.
Chaz Lanier, UNF Ospreys
North Florida Men Down the University of Jacksonville Dolphins, 82-74 in Part I of the River City Rumble
January 12, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - The North Florida Ospreys men's basketball team came away with their third win in a row against Jacksonville University on Friday, 82-74, in the first of two annual contests known as the River City Rumble.
Dorian James and Chaz Lanier led the way in the rivalry game with 4,559 people looking on at UNF Arena, including four players from the Jacksonville Jaguars football team. The crowd, as expected, largely favored the home team but also included many vocal Dolphins fans. The atmosphere in the arena was highly charged, and remained that way throughout the close contest.
Jaylen Smith, UNF Ospreys and Zach Bell, JU Dophins
Jaylen Smith, UNF Ospreys and Zach Bell, jU Dolphins
After falling behind by three points at the half, North Florida (9-9, 2-1) dominated the second half to come away with the victory. The Ospreys lit up the arena with 49 second half points, including a 10-0 run early in the half. Another 16-6 run gave UNF enough cushion to secure its first home win in conference play.
Veteran players James and Lanier displayed their experience and leadership, combining for 46 points with a combination of dunks and threes. James surpassed 20 points for the first time with a career-high 25 points, while Lanier threw in 21 points. Both played almost the entire the game, save for a combined total of five minutes on the bench.
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For the Dolphins (9-8, 0-3), Marcus Niblack put up 18 points and freshman Donovan Rivers threw in a career-high 10 points. That wasn't enough though to overcome the Ospreys' 60% field goal percentage, including a blazing 84% in the second half.
The key to the game was the Osprey's explosive offense in the second half. The Ospreys' 10-0 run, which came after they pulled even with the Dolphins early in the period, featured James hitting a jumper and a three-pointer. The Ospreys' philosophy of three's and layups was the order of the day, with Lanier hitting a pair of threes and layups added by James, Jaylen Smith and Oscar Berry. Clutch free throws in the final minutes secured the home victory.
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Key Stats
North Florida
Dorian James | 25 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks
Chaz Lanier | 21 points
Nate Lliteras | 12 points, 3 rebounds
Jacksonville
Marcus Niblack | 18 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists
Donovan Rivers | 10 points, 7 rebounds
Robert McCray | 9 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals
Looking Ahead:
The UNF men will look to maintain their momentum as they take on Kennesaw State on Thursday, January 18th at home in a critical ASUN conference game. Game time is 7 pm. The Dolphins will look to rebound from this tough loss as they host conference rival Queens University, also this Thursday at 7 pm.
North Florida Ospreys Can't Fly Past Eagles: UNF Falls 70-38 to FGCU
January 6, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - Despite a valiant effort, the University of North Florida women's basketball team (6-10, 0-2 ASUN) succumbed to the high-flying Florida Gulf Coast University Eagles (12-4, 2-0 ASUN) on January 6th, falling 70-38. The Eagles' suffocating defense and potent offense proved too much for the Ospreys to overcome, but UNF managed to showcase flashes of grit and determination throughout the contest.
Lyric Swan, UNF Ospreys
Kaila Rougler, UNF Ospreys
FGCU dominated from the outset, establishing a double-digit lead early in the first quarter and never relinquishing it. The Eagles' relentless pressure on defense forced turnovers and disrupted UNF's offensive rhythm, making it difficult for the Ospreys to find their flow.
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Lyric Swann, UNF's leading scorer with 11 points, tried to keep the Ospreys afloat with her trademark drives and mid-range jumpers. However, the Eagles' balanced attack, with twelve different players putting up points, proved too much to handle. Uju Ezeudu led the way for the Eagles with 9 points and 6 rebounds.
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While the contest was one-sided throughout, it provides valuable lessons for the Ospreys as they look to turn things around in a very competitive ASUN conference. Improving ball security against an aggressive defense and finding more offensive consistency will be key for UNF in their upcoming matchups.
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Key Takeaways:
FGCU defeated UNF 70-38 in a dominant performance.
Lyric Swann was UNF's top scorer with 11 points.
Despite the loss, UNF showed flashes of fight and determination.
Looking Ahead:
UNF will look to bounce back on January 11th as they travel to Georgia to take on Kennesaw State in a critical ASUN conference game. Game time is 7 pm.
Stetson Hatters Hold off UNF in Nail-Biting Conference Opener, 61-57
January 4, 2024
Jacksonville, FL - The Stetson University Hatters kicked off their Atlantic Sun Conference play with a heart-stopping 61-57 road victory over the University of North Florida Ospreys on Thursday, January 4th at UNF Arena. In a battle of in-state rivals, the Ospreys displayed resilience and grit, coming back and closing a double-digit deficit midway through the third quarter, but ultimately fell short.
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The Ospreys jumped out to a 5-0 lead to open the game, before the Hatters scored 6 straight of their own. Stetson then maintained their lead throughout the first half, going into the locker room with a 28-16 lead.
Helena Rafnsdottir, UNF Ospreys
The second half saw the Ospreys whittle down the lead utilizing a full court press and briefly switching to a zone defense. The teams exchanged leads down the stretch with the outcome hanging in the balance. With under a minute to play, UNF took a one point lead. However, inconsistency from the free throw line hurt the Ospreys. The Hatters, with their own free throw woes, nonetheless were able to secure their first conference win as the Ospreys were unable to secure the missed free throws during the final seconds of the game.
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This victory marks a significant win for the Hatters, starting their conference campaign on a positive note. Coach Lynn Bria praised her team's tenacity, "Our kids played really hard, I thought our defense in the first half was the best that we have played all year."
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The Stetson win sends a message to the rest of the ASUN Conference. With a team filled with talent and determination, they are poised to make a serious run for the conference title. The UNF Ospreys, while disappointed by the close loss, can take solace in their overall performance, displaying poise and determination after falling behind early, and look forward to rebounding in their next game.
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As the ASUN season unfolds, one thing is for certain: the battle between the Hatters and Ospreys is far from over. This thrilling opening act promises a continued rivalry filled with all-out effort and nail-biting finishes.
Kaila Rougler, UNF Ospreys
UNF Women's Basketball Victorious In Overtime Thriller Against Florida A&M, 76-71
December 29, 2023
Jacksonville, FL - North Florida women's basketball emerged victorious in a nail-biter against Florida A&M, 76-71, in its non-conference finale on Friday evening in UNF Arena.FAMA led the contest throughout, and wasn't until deep into the final period that a late score from Kaila Rougier sent UNF to overtime tied at 62. FAMU scored first in the overtime period, but the Ospreys went on a 10-0 run to move grab its sixth win of the season.
Jayla Adams, UNF Ospreys
Rougier led the team in scoring with 20 points, which fell one shy of her season-high mark. Emma Broermann dominated on both sides of the ball with 18 points and eight rebounds, while also falling one point short of her season-high total as well.
The extra period was a display of grit and determination from both sides. However, UNF proved to be the more resilient team, outscoring Florida A&M 11-6 to secure the hard-fought victory.
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UNF will aim to build on their momentum as they host Stetson University on January 4th in their next matchup. The Ospreys will seek to extend their winning streak and continue their climb up the ASUN standings.
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This victory was a testament to the heart and hustle of the UNF women's basketball team. By staying composed in a pressure-cooker situation and executing under the bright lights, the Ospreys proved that they are a force to be reckoned with in the ASUN conference.
Dolphins Sink 'Hawks in Swisher Showdown, Earn Third Straight Win
December 18, 2023
Jacksonville, FL - Jacksonville University's Dolphins cruised to a 75-65 victory over the Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks in a hard-fought battle at Swisher Gymnasium on December 18th. Despite a sluggish start, the Dolphins found their rhythm in the second half, shooting a blistering 68% and outscoring the Warhawks 40-26 to secure their third consecutive win.
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Early on, it was a dogfight. Both teams exchanged blows, trading the lead five times and keeping the score within five points for most of the first half. Louisiana-Monroe's Marcus Jones led the charge with 12 points, while Jacksonville struggled to find its offensive footing. The Dolphins trailed by three at halftime, but Coach Jordan Mincy's halftime adjustments proved pivotal.
Marcus Niblack Jacksonville U.
The second half was a different story. The Dolphins came out firing, led by the dynamic duo of Cyrille Djambo (22 points) and Javon Edwards (17 points). Djambo dominated the paint, converting layups and drawing fouls, while Edwards drained key three-pointers to stretch the lead. The Warhawks couldn't counter, succumbing to Jacksonville's defensive pressure and turning the ball over 16 times in the second half.
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The win wasn't just about individual performances; it was a team effort. Savion Gallion grabbed 10 rebounds and anchored the defense, while DeeJuan Pruitt added 12 points and provided energy off the bench. This well-rounded effort, coupled with their second-half surge, propelled the Dolphins to victory.
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The win strengthens Jacksonville's hold on third place in the ASUN conference and extends their winning streak to three. The Dolphins return to action on Thursday, December 21st as they travel north for a matchup with the number one ranked team in the country, the Purdue Boilermakers.
The Dolphins are proving their doubters wrong and showing championship aspirations. With their high-powered offense and gritty defense, the Swisher Gymnasium might just become a fortress come March Madness.
North Florida Women's Team Prevails Over the Winthorp Eagles, 55-49
December 20, 2023
Kaila Rougier, UNF Ospreys
Jayla Adams UNF Ospreys
Jacksonville, FL - The North Florida Ospreys women's basketball team defeated the Winthrop University Eagles 65-49 at UNF Arena on Wednesday evening. Strong performances by Kaila Rougier and Jayla Adams, who each scored 13 points, pulled down 4 rebounds and had 2 assists, led the way to the Ospreys' victory.
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From the tip-off, the competition was intense, with UNF jumping out to an early lead. The two teams then played evenly in a fast-paced, high-energy battle. Both teams displayed exceptional athleticism, executing strategic plays and demonstrating strong teamwork on the court. Excellent coaching of both teams was evident.
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UNF, known for their defensive prowess, showcased their tenacity, disrupting Winthrop's offense with tight defense and swift transitions. Conversely, Winthrop demonstrated their offensive prowess, adeptly maneuvering through UNF's defense and sinking crucial shots to keep themselves in the game.
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The momentum swung back and forth, but Winthrop wasn't able to make it close until midway through the fourth quarter, when they pulled within five points. As the clock wound down, the outcome remained in doubt until less than a minute remained. In a nail-biting finish, UNF managed to hold on with some clutch free throw shooting. It was a hard-earned triumph in a game that was a testament to the competitive spirit and talent in collegiate women's basketball.
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Next Up:
North Florida: December 29th vs. Florida A&M
Winthrop University: December 30th vs. Florida
Dolphins Dominate Eagles: Jacksonville Cruises to Victory
over Trinity Baptist
December 14, 2023
Jacksonville, FL – The Jacksonville University Dolphins soared past the Trinity Baptist Eagles in a decisive 91-54 victory on Thursday night. The Dolphins, led by a stellar performance from Stephon Payne III and Deejuan Pruitt, both of whom dropped 18 points, controlled the tempo from the opening tip.
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Payne III was a force in the paint, grabbing 9 rebounds and converting at a 71.2% clip from the free-throw line. Pruitt, known for his sharpshooting, connected on 7 of his 9 field goal attempts, including a pair of three-pointers.
The Dolphins' defense was equally impressive, holding Trinity Baptist to just 54 points on 32% shooting. The Eagles struggled to find their rhythm throughout the game, never mounting a serious threat to Jacksonville's lead.
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Key Stats:
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Jacksonville: 91 points, 42.9% FG, 34.8% 3PT, 72.7% FT, 38 rebounds
Trinity Baptist: 54 points, 32.0% FG, 20.0% 3PT, 63.6% FT, 27 rebounds
Turning Point:
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The Dolphins went on a 14-0 run late in the first half to break the game open and take a commanding 45-23 lead at the break. Trinity Baptist was unable to recover from the deficit in the second half.
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Impact Players:
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Stephon Payne III (Jacksonville): 18 points, 9 rebounds
Deejuan Pruitt (Jacksonville): 18 points, 3 assists
Robert McCray (Jacksonville): 12 points, 4 rebounds
Michael Jones (Trinity Baptist): 14 points, 5 rebounds
Looking Ahead:
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The Dolphins, now 7-4 on the season, will look to build on their momentum as they head into conference play. Trinity Baptist, on the other hand, will need to regroup and find their footing before their next game.
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This win was a dominant performance for the Jacksonville Dolphins, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. With Payne III and Pruitt leading the way, the Dolphins are a team to watch in the ASUN Conference this season.
North Florida Ospreys Soar Past Georgia Southern Eagles 64-56
December 9, 2023
Jacksonville, FL - On December 9th, 2023, the North Florida Ospreys defeated the Georgia Southern Eagles 64-56 in a hard-fought battle at the UNF Arena. A strong performance by Ametri Moss, who scored 17 points, fueled the Ospreys' victory.
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The game started slowly, with both teams struggling to find their offensive rhythm. However, North Florida began to pull away in the second half thanks to Moss's hot shooting and a stingy defense. The Ospreys were able to hold Georgia Southern to just 56 points, including a mere 25 points in the second half.
In addition to Moss, several other players contributed to North Florida's win. Jarius Hicklen added 12 points and 8 rebounds, while Garrett Sams chipped in 10 points. For Georgia Southern, Gedi Juozapaitis led the way with 15 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Ospreys' defensive prowess.
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The win marked North Florida's second consecutive victory and improved their record to 4-6 on the season. Georgia Southern, on the other hand, fell to 4-7 with the loss.
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Key Stats:
North Florida: 64 points (39.4% FG, 32.0% 3PT, 78.6% FT), 41 rebounds, 12 assists, 7 steals
Georgia Southern: 56 points (40.0% FG, 26.7% 3PT, 50.0% FT), 33 rebounds, 10 assists, 4 steals
Leading Scorers:
North Florida: Ametri Moss (17 points), Jarius Hicklen (12 points), Garrett Sams (10 points)
Georgia Southern: Gedi Juozapaitis (15 points), Isaiah Crawley (14 points), Tyren Moore (13 points)
Next Up:
North Florida: December 17th vs. Jacksonville
Georgia Southern: December 17th vs. Stetson
South Carolina State Bulldogs Pull Off Upset Over Jacksonville Dolphins 86-85
December 11, 2023
Orangeburg, SC - The South Carolina State Bulldogs stunned the Jacksonville Dolphins 86-85 in a nail-biting thriller at the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center. The win snapped a seven-game losing streak for the Bulldogs and provided a much-needed boost to their season.
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South Carolina State's offense, led by Tyrese Evans' game-high 23 points, was efficient throughout the contest. The Bulldogs shot 53.8% from the field and connected on 8 of 17 three-pointers. They also outrebounded Jacksonville 38-32, including 13 offensive rebounds.
Jacksonville, despite a strong performance from Robert McCray who scored 22 points, struggled to find their rhythm offensively. They turned the ball over 16 times, leading to 20 points for the Bulldogs. Additionally, Jacksonville went just 7 of 18 from the free-throw line, failing to capitalize on crucial scoring opportunities.
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The game remained close throughout the second half, with neither team holding a lead larger than five points. In the final minute, South Carolina State's Justin Felder hit a clutch three-pointer to put the Bulldogs up by one point. Jacksonville had a chance to win the game in the final seconds, but McCray's shot missed the rim, sealing the victory for South Carolina State.
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This win was a significant one for the Bulldogs, who had been struggling to find consistency throughout the season. It gives them momentum heading into their next game and keeps their hopes for a strong finish alive.
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Key Stats:
South Carolina State: 86 points (53.8% FG, 47.1% 3PT, 73.3% FT), 38 rebounds, 14 assists, 9 steals
Jacksonville: 85 points (49.1% FG, 40.0% 3PT, 68.2% FT), 32 rebounds, 17 assists, 10 steals
Leading Scorers:
South Carolina State: Tyrese Evans (23 points), Justin Felder (17 points), Tahj Eaddy (14 points)
Jacksonville: Robert McCray (22 points), Kevion Nolan (18 points), Omar Payne (16 points)
Next Up:
South Carolina State: December 17th vs. SC State
Jacksonville: December 17th vs. North Florida