Gantt’s threes enable 12-0 run down the stretch

A pair of Greg Gantt three pointers late in the second half helped lift Florida Atlantic (11-10, 7-3) to a 70-59 victory tonight over South Alabama (12-10, 4-6) at the Mitchell Center in Mobile, AL.

FAU has now won six of their last seven.

“I give a lot of credit to South Alabama.  They put themselves in a position to win, but down the end, guys set some terrific screens, and showed some great patience”, said Owl’s head Coach Mike Jarvis during post-game commentary on ESPN760.

It was just the second time that FAU has defeated the Jaguars since the nine game series, which now stands at 2-7, began in 2007.

The Owls shot just 4-16 from beyond the arc in the first period but were able to muster a 29-27 halftime lead.

FAU would remain in control until the Jaguars, who have been plagued by injury and ineligibility as of late, mounted a valiant effort tying the game at 53-53 with 4:09 to play.

However, a pair of Gantt three pointers, which jump-started a 12-0 run by the Owls, would put the game out of reach for South Alabama with under a minute to play.

“Gantt made two huge threes, and anytime you win on the road, ‘oh baby’, it’s good”, Jarvis said.

Alex Tucker continues to shine since his insertion into the starting line-up and posted10 points, 6 assists, and six rebounds.

“I’m happy when he gives us three or four, but now he’s giving us double figures. He’s taking great care of the ball.  Great, great defense”, said Jarvis.

Gantt, who finished with 21 points, was the game’s leading scorer. Sanchez Hughley (16 points) rounded out the balance of FAU’s offense. Brett Royster, who leads the Sun Belt in blocked shots, had four on the night.

The Jaguars were paced by Tim William's 14 points and eight rebounds.

The Owls will next take on rival Florida International (7-16, 4-6) at FAU Arena this Saturday at 7:00 p.m.

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