Spartans Put Out the Fire

TAMPA, Fla.- The University of Tampa (5-5) women's basketball team defeated Southeastern University (3-7) in a 53-27 contest Saturday afternoon at the Bob Martinez Athletics Center.

Tampa came out with great momentum holding the Fire scoreless for the first few minutes of the game. Tampa led for the entire first half by at least an average of four points. The Spartans were able to snag five points off Fire turnovers, ultimately contributing to the 20-14 advantage at the end of the period.

Senior Sarah Wickham led her squad at the half with eight points as teammate Moriah Hodge grabbed four rebounds and two blocks.

Though the Fire never led nor tied the first half once, they were able to outrebound the Spartans 19-16. The Fire managed to gain the advantage in second chance points but felt short with seven turnovers.

Sophomore Liz Capps led the Fire with eight points shooting 50 percent from the field and led all rebounders with eight to end the half.

The Spartans maintained the same energy it possessed first half holding the Fire to shooting 26 percent from the field. The Spartans shot 50 percent from the field and received tremendous help from its bench who scored 11 points in the period.

Wickham led all scorers with 12 points to finish the game. Junior Kamari Smith chipped in 10 points while teammates Jaleesa Harmon and Hodge chipped in eight points apiece. Freshman Britny Taylor added five points off the bench.

The Fire didn't have an answer for the Spartans in the second half suffering deficits of 10 or more points. The Fire were able to outrebound the Spartans once again the second half by one.

Capps led her squad with a total of 10 points and eight rebounds to finish the game.

The Spartans will hit the hardwood again Friday, December 30 against Sunshine State Conference opponents Rollins at 5: 30 pm.

Live stats will be available through www.tampaspartans.com.

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