Miami Dade secured a hard-fought 79-72 victory over Eastern Florida State College, showcasing a strong late-game performance. The teams battled closely in the first half, with the Sharks leading narrowly at halftime, 34-33. A strong defensive effort and effective free-throw shooting helped Miami Dade maintain their lead in the second half, despite Eastern Florida's determined offensive plays. Breland led the Sharks with 23 points, while Verstraeten and Nijean contributed crucial performances to seal the win.

By the Numbers
  • Breland scored 23 points on 8-of-17 shooting and was 7-of-8 from the free-throw line.
  • Miami Dade went 20-for-25 at the free-throw line overall.
  • Eastern Florida dominated rebounds, posting 52-35, including 20 offensive boards.
Yes, But

Despite the loss, Eastern Florida outperformed in rebounding, highlighting their powerful inside presence. The Titans' ability to secure offensive boards created additional scoring opportunities, which could have influenced their strategy against Miami Dade's defense.

State of Play
  • Miami Dade's defense turned key plays into points in the second half, propelling their lead.
  • Eastern Florida's reliance on perimeter shooting was consistent but ultimately insufficient against Miami Dade's late-game execution.
What's Next

Miami Dade will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming games, focusing on maintaining their defensive intensity and free-throw efficiency. Meanwhile, Eastern Florida may need to reevaluate their offensive strategy to better capitalize on their rebounding advantage.

Bottom Line

The Sharks’ late-game composure was pivotal in their victory, showcasing the importance of execution under pressure. Improving free-throw consistency and defensive efforts will be crucial as they advance in the season.