Fire Take Down #7 Taylor University

LAKELAND, Fla. - Nullify Perimeter Shooting

The above was the Fire's motto when they hosted Taylor University at The Furnace this evening.  Prior to tonight's contest, the Trojans were ranked 11th in three point shooting in NAIA Division II.  This evening the game came down to the final seconds when Southeastern's Jeremy Oppenheimer successfully knocked the ball free and recorded a steal to solidify a 72-69 victory over the Trojans.  

Early on the Trojans produced impressive minutes, generating an 8-0 run.  The formidable Fire, however, did not back down and, with skillful shooting, edged their way back on the board.  

Leading the charge for Southeastern was freshman Oppenheimer, who recorded 16 points.  Three other players, CJ Reese, Wesley Johnson, and Deshawn Wilcox, were also very instrumental in tonight's Fire's victory, each generating double digit points.    

Several aspects played key roles for Southeastern tonight, one being the play inside the paint.  Johnson contributed greatly for the Fire off the glass, recording his second double-double of the season with 10 rebounds and 15 points.  

The Trojan's Jake Heggeland caused a nuisance for the Fire down on the blocks.  The big man closed the game with a team leading 20 points.

Following Southeastern's previous game against Johnson College, Coach R-Jay Barsh commented that the team's free throw shooting must improve.  This evening the Fire adhered to Coach Barsh's instructions, as foul shooting proved to be a major factor. Oppenheimer was perfect with 7-7 from the line, along with Wilcox who was a perfect 4-4 from the charity stripe.  In previous games, the Trojans took as many as 20 shots from the foul line.  Tonight's game was quite different for Taylor University, as the team only attempted five shots from the stripe.