UT Gets Back in W Column

TAMPA, Fla. - Caitlyn Mitryk's first double-double of the season helped the University of Tampa Spartans to a 63-54 victory over visiting Saint Leo Wednesday night at the Martinez Sports Center. UT (11-3, 2-2 Sunshine State Conference) used a strong second half to snap a two-game skid and keep the Lions (7-7, 0-5 SSC) winless in conference play this season.

The Spartans jumped out to a 6-0 lead to start the game before allowing Saint Leo to tie the game and eventually take the lead. The advantage exchanged hands 10 times in the opening half that also featured six ties. The two squads combined for 22 turnovers in the sometimes sloppy first stanza as Tampa took a slim 28-27 lead into the locker room at the half.

Gianna Messina nailed a three right out of the break, a sign of the good fortune to come for the Spartans in the second half. Saint Leo was able to pull within one early in the period, but behind Messina's 12 points, the Lions were never able to pull any closer as Tampa enjoyed as much as an 11-point advantage during the half.

Messina finished the night with 14 points while Mitryk chipped in with 15 along with pulling down 12 rebounds. Kym Taylor led the Spartans in scoring with 18 points, including a perfect 8-8 night at the charity stripe.

Tampa will return to action on Saturday when No. 13 Barry visits for a 2:00 pm showdown. A live webcast and live stats will be available 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.