The Florida State College at Jacksonville men's basketball team (20-7; 7-2) hosted Florida Gateway College (16-10; 5-4) in a Valentine's Day evening matchup between the Region VIII Sun Lakes Conference top two teams. FSCJ held a 16-point lead at half before going on to win 96-75. The 21-point statement victory strengthened FSCJ's first place hold atop the standings.
It was a back and forth game early on until freshman guard Eddie Mitchell's 3-pointer off a baseline-drive assist from sophomore guard Tarence Guinyard put FSCJ on top for good with 14:31 to play in the first half. It was all FSCJ from there, holding the second-ranked Timberwolves to 34.2% shooting for the game and winning the rebounding battle 52-39.
"We've let some games slip away this season, which still stings, but there was no way we were going to build another big lead and not pull it out," said Mitchell, who finished with 16 points and 6 rebounds. "We know we can still play better and have to, but we're building our consistency and looking to go on a big run here at the perfect time."
Guinyard led the way with 32 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists, while sophomore forward Roderick Gardner posted his second double-double of the season with 15 points and 10 rebounds. The win over Florida Gateway marks FSCJ's 20th win of the regular season already, which is more than the program's win total from the previous three seasons combined.
"I am very proud of how this team has come together and stayed together this year," said Head Coach John Putyrski. "Our effort and preparation this week show tremendous character and resolve to continue elevating this program. There is plenty more still to do, and we're excited for it."
FSCJ enters the final three games of their regular season beginning with a road contest at Pasco Hernando State College this Saturday at 2:00pm EST. They then host Palm Beach State College at home Wednesday, February 21st for Sophomore Night before the regular season finale at Florida Gateway on Saturday, February 24th.
To stay up to date with all the happenings on your FSCJ BlueWave and more exclusive content, follow us on Instagram and X @FS