UNF basketball begins its 2013-2014 season against in state foe, University of Florida on Nov. 8.
The last time these two squared off, the Gators grounded the Ospreys in a decided 91-55 pounding.
UNF has won four season openers in a row. UF is ranked No. 9 in one preseason poll.
The home opener is set for Nov. 16 against the Southern University Jaguars. UNF has not lost a home opener since 2008. Other non-conference matchups include games against nationally pre-season ranked opponents Ohio State (No. 10), Indiana (No.16) and Michigan State (No. 3). UNF is slated to have 14 home games this season, up from just 11 last year. Home matchups against Southern, Edward Waters, Savannah State, Bethune-Cookman and Webber International mark its non-conference home schedule. The 14 home games match the highest number in head coach Matthew Driscoll’s career at UNF.
Conference competition starts Dec. 30 for the Ospreys when they face Kennesaw State University at UNF Arena. UNF has beat Kennesaw State in 8 straight games.
Jan. 9 brings UNF to a grudge match with A-Sun darling Florida Gulf Coast (Aka Dunk City), that beat UNF in the 2012-2013 conference tournament, putting an end to its season.
This season’s A-Sun tournament format has changed, with no single venue to hold the tournament’s games. The higher seeds of the conference now get to play games their home court.
The River City Rumble continues when the JU Dolphins visit UNF January 17. There will surely be no loving moments for the Ospreys this coming Valentine’s Day, as the rivalry continues February 14.
With matchups against NCAA powerhouses as well as tough conference competition, the Ospreys have their sights on another conference tournament berth and yet another chance at a coveted NCAA National tournament seed.
