Team opens regular season on Friday against UC Davis

Florida Atlantic took an early lead, and never relinquished it, routing Lynn University 81-61 in exhibition action tonight at FAU Arena.

The Owls conclude preseason play at 1-1.

Aside from Darren Stewart, and Ray Taylor, who were both held again due to suspension, all of FAU’s players saw minutes in the contest.

“I like the way it’s developing, I can really see us with 10 guys that can play” said Coach Mike Jarvis. “The effort was better tonight, and that’s what a coach looks for first and foremost.”

This would be a welcomed change over last season, in which the Owls were often limited within their rotation and tired late in the second half.

FAU saw four players in double figures tonight in Kore White (17), Alex Tucker (13), Greg Gantt (13), and Brett Royster (11).

“We have a lot to work on, but there was a big improvement”, said White. Once the whole team gets a feel for each other then it will makes things easier.”

One thing that got better was perimeter defense.

After allowing 46.7% from beyond the arc to Northwood, FAU clamped down from long range against the Fighting Knights, who tossed up a 3-of-15 performance (20%).

One thing that will need some immediate attention is long range shooting.

The Owls posted a 2-of-25 performance against Northwood, and didn’t fair much better tonight at 2-of-12.

“I’m not worried about it, but we’ve go to do something about it”, Jarvis said.

Trailing by as many as 11 in the first period, Lynn would reduce the deficit to just five on a lay-up by Terrell Williams with 7:00 to go.

However, they would get no closer than 11 in the second frame as the Owls kept the pressure on, building as much as a 21 point lead.

Chris Hall, who led the Fighting Knights with 19.8 ppg last season, was held to just eight on 3-of-12 shooting.

The Owls will open regular season play in the Athletes In Action Classic against UC Davis on Friday at 7:00 p.m.

Game Discussion

Box Score