Panthers Claw Past Flames in a Fierce Showdown at Ocean Bank Convocation Center
The Florida International Panthers improved their record to an impressive 76-71 victory over the Liberty Flames. The Panthers showcased a robust performance, outscoring the Flames in both halves with 37 and 39 points respectively, while the Flames managed 34 and 37 points. The final score reflected the competitive nature of the game.
The Panthers dominated various aspects of play, particularly in scoring within the paint where they accumulated a commanding total of 44 points against the Flames' solid effort of 36 points. Florida International's defensive prowess was on full display as they tallied nine blocks over Liberty's three, setting a tone for their defensive capabilities throughout the game.
Offensively, Florida International was efficient from two-point range with an impressive shooting percentage of nearly sixty percent compared to fifty-three percent by Liberty. This efficiency contributed significantly to their overall field goal percentage which stood at forty-six percent. The Panthers also excelled in capitalizing on turnovers, scoring sixteen points off turnovers while limiting themselves to only seven total turnovers.
Rebounding was another area where Florida International showed superiority by securing thirty-eight rebounds; twenty-six were defensive and nine offensive rebounds added crucial second-chance opportunities that resulted in sixteen second-chance points. In contrast, Liberty managed thirty-one rebounds with twenty-three being defensive.
Assist-wise, Florida International facilitated better ball movement which is evident from their thirteen assists leading to an assist-turnover ratio of approximately two compared to Liberty's ratio of one derived from nine assists.
Free throw accuracy played its part as well; both teams performed similarly with Florida International making seventy-one percent of their free throws while Liberty made sixty-nine percent.
Looking ahead for fans eager to support their team once more, the next challenge for Florida International will be against Jacksonville State Gamecocks at Ocean Bank Convocation Center located at Miami FL on February 24th at 6:00 PM Eastern Time. This encounter can be followed live on ESPN+, ensuring fans won't miss any action as these teams face off once again.