Men’s basketball halts losing streak, comes out on top against Ave Maria

Jasmine Casimir // Asst. Sports Director

The men’s basketball team returned to Lime Court at FIU Arena defending its home court with a 89-72 win over Ave Maria University.

The Panthers had a very shaky first half, losing the lead five times, but was able to connect in the second half with their largest lead of 17 points after shooting go-ahead three’s from downtown by Donte McGill, Richard Bivens and Elmo Stephen.

“It kind of energized us there,” said Head Coach Anthony Evans. “We just have to continue to have balance on offense and when the shot’s there, take it and knock it down.”

Senior guard Eric Nottage recorded eight points and four assists, while senior guard Donte McGill was the top performer of the night for the Panthers, putting up 23 points, two steals and one assist.

“I felt like I played okay,” said McGill. “I just did the most that I can to help my team out there.”

Defensively, the Panthers had one block and a season-high nine steals without senior forward Michael Kessens.

“We defended better, and were able to get some stops,” said Evans. “Defense is what we do from the beginning of the game to the end. That’s our staple.”

The Panthers hosted and defeated Binghamton University Bearcats on Sunday, Nov. 27, 74-57, and will prepare to play Elon University on Wednesday, Nov. 30 at 7 p.m.