Unlike the last two seasons, the Ospreys (13-18 overall, 8-6 ASUN) had to fight to secure top four seeding and at least one home game during the tournament.
With Thursday’s victory over Jacksonville University (17-14 overall, 5-9 ASUN), the Ospreys will battle JU in the ASUN quarterfinals.
This is the fourth-straight season of a winning conference play record for the Ospreys. Here’s what to expect at the UNF Arena when the cross-town rivals face off for the third time this season.
North Florida swept the Dolphins with 80-64 and 73-69 victories on the road and at home respectively.
Senior superstar Dallas Moore scored 25 points after being held to four in the first half against JU on Thursday. Expect him to help the Ospreys keep the offensive juices flowing with his quick feet and fast shooting. Fellow senior Aaron Bodager went lights out from behind the arc, going 6 of 13 for 20 points. During Thursday’s matchup, Bodager had 18 points in the first half to keep the Ospreys lead intact.
UNF’s defensive play also helped them throughout the night with 10 blocks to the Dolphins’ one.
Senior Chris Davenport pulled in ten huge rebounds, eight of which were on the defensive glass. Freshman Wajid Aminu reeled in nine of his own while teammate Aaron Horne had eight.
As a unit, North Florida out-rebounded the Dolphins 42-37.
Don’t expect Jacksonville University to lay down and roll over for this third showdown.
JU has a triple threat of their own with Marcel White, J.R. Holder and Darien Fernandez.
The trio scored 45 of the Dolphins’ 69 points on Thursday. Dolphins junior forward Antwon Clayton pulled down 12 rebounds to lead all players on the court.
North Florida will have to limit turnovers, stay on the defensive glass and knock down free throws to stay pace with Dolphins and move forward in the tournament.
The first 1,500 students will receive free tickets for Monday matchup against cross town rival Jacksonville University (17-14 overall, 5-9 ASUN) in the ASUN quarterfinals. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are available here for the Monday night matchup at the UNF Arena at 7 p.m. Be sure to come early to get a good seat for this battle.
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