UNF Men’s Basketball season opener preview

DeAndre Pearson

 

Photo by Lili Weinstein

The North Florida Ospreys kick off their 2018-2019 basketball season on the road against the Dayton Flyers.

After losing in the ASUN Semifinals to FGCU, North Florida returns with a revamped roster complimented with depth at every position. After previously leading the ASUN in three-pointers, “The Birds of Trey” will be oozing with youth and offense. Here are some players to watch for in their season opener:  

Ivan Gandia-Rosa:
Returning for his second season at UNF, Gandia-Rosa will assume the responsibilities of primary ball-handler. According to UNF Athletics, Gandia-Rosa led the team in scoring (13.8 ppg) and assists (6.2). The junior also tied the ASUN single-game record of 18 assists against USC Upstate.

J.T Escobar:
Also returning for his second season, the Ole Miss transfer averaged 11.5 points per game and averaged 42.7 percent from three-point.

Noah Horchler:
Horchler averaged 11.7 points per game with 8.6 rebounds. Horchler also led the team in blocks (1.6).

Trip Day:
Day was the third leading scorer on the team with 11.3 points per game and 4.2 rebounds, solid post-player to come off of the bench.

Garret Sams:
According to ASUN Sports, Sams averaged 12.7 points per game and is currently the team’s active leader in steals (51).

Tipoff begins on Wednesday, Nov. 7  at 7 p.m. on ESPN+.

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