Tom Jessee Wins 300th Game as UT Tops Palm Beach Atlantic

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - University of Tampa (8-1) women's basketball coach Tom Jessee earned his 300th career victory as his team recorded a 60-45 victory at Palm Beach Atlantic (2-7). The Spartans won their seventh straight game while finishing the season sweep of the Sailfish.

Jessee becomes the 34th active coach in NCAA II to reach the 300 victory milestone as his career record now stands at 300-148. His .670 career winning percentage also ranks 23rd among active coaches. The seventh year UT head coach also spent nine seasons at his alma mater, Bluefield State (W.V.). He also 130-59 record at Tampa.

Palm Beach Atlantic stayed within striking distance for the majority of the first half as UT turned a 20-18 lead into a 36-20 halftime advantage over the final 7:04. The 16-2 Spartan run proved to be all Jessee's squad needed as it led by as many as 25 points in the second half.

Junior Tiara Cook led all scorers with a career high 24 points. The junior from Holiday also led the Spartans with 11 rebounds as seven were on the offensive end. Kym Taylor added 16 points as Caitlyn Mitryk grabbed 10 rebounds with a team-high three blocked shots.

The Spartans now begin a span of 24 days without a game as it returns to the court on Tues., Dec. 30, at home against Augusta State (Ga.). UT will offer a live webcast and live stats through www.tampaspartans.com. Fans may also sign up for eScores, a free service that sends text message alerts to fans at the conclusion of Spartan athletic events. Please visit the official athletics website to sign up.