Sharks score 89 in win against the Falcons
In a thrilling matchup on Daytona State's home court, Miami Dade secured an 89-78 victory. The win elevated Miami Dade's record to 11-6 (5-2 conference), while Daytona State dropped to 5-13 (2-6).
The game tipped off with both teams trading buckets in an evenly contested opening period. Miami Dade's forward Cleaira Peterson led the charge with eight points, while Shameir Quimby added six. Daytona State's Ceylone Brooks, who had a standout performance, kept her team in the game with six points of her own. The Sharks edged the Falcons 24-22 by the end of the quarter.
The Sharks took control in the second quarter, outscoring the Falcons 22-15. Peterson continued to dominate, adding nine more points in the quarter, while guard Jazmyne Bynum sank two three-pointers to stretch the lead. Miami Dade's defense stepped up, holding Daytona State to just 33% shooting in the period. At halftime, the Sharks held a comfortable 46-37 advantage.
Daytona State clawed their way back in the third quarter, led by Brooks, who drained two three-pointers and tallied eight points in the frame. The Falcons' improved ball movement, with Mia Little dishing out five assists in the quarter, helped them close the gap. Despite the surge, Miami Dade held onto their lead, entering the final quarter up 62-54.
In the final frame, Miami Dade displayed poise and determination to seal the victory. Peterson and Quimby were unstoppable, combining for 16 points. Bynum contributed with timely assists, finishing with seven for the game. The Sharks' defense forced key turnovers, stifling any hopes of a Daytona State comeback. Despite a late push from Brooks and Little, Miami Dade outscored the Falcons 27-24 in the quarter to secure the 89-78 win.