Sharks lose Conference Matchup vs Bucs

The Miami Dade Sharks men's basketball team fell to Florida Southwestern State College on Wednesday night, 74-56, at home. Despite a strong second-half effort, the Sharks were unable to overcome an early deficit as offensive struggles plagued the team throughout the contest.

The Sharks struggled to find their rhythm offensively in the opening period, shooting just 27.3% from the field and 1-for-12 from beyond the arc. Florida Southwestern capitalized, using a balanced attack to build a 39-24 halftime lead. The Buccaneers' efficiency was on full display, shooting 54.7% for the game, including 42.9% from three-point range.

Miami Dade came out with more energy in the second half, led by Randy Smith, who finished with a team-high 15 points and added 5 rebounds. However, the Sharks' shooting woes persisted, as they connected on only 29.2% of their shots from the field and just 8.3% (2-for-24) from three-point range. Faheim Saintleger Meran contributed 10 points, while Jamaal Morris added 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists.

Rebounding proved to be a major difference, with the Buccaneers dominating the glass 48-28, including 14 offensive rebounds that led to second-chance opportunities. The Sharks also struggled to contain Florida Southwestern's K'jei Parker, who tallied 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Jahmari Johnson added 15 points on an efficient 5-of-6 shooting performance.