LAKELAND, Fla. - Tonight's home opener surely did not disappoint. The Fire's lights out shooting and terrific defense propelled the team to a 95-41 victory over the Trinity College Tigers.
Southeastern is home to a plethora of dynamic players that are constantly pushing the floor, making it very difficult for opponents to defend. The Fire rotated in 13 different players, all of which made their presence felt on the court.
"We have four guys on the court at all times that can push it and as long as we rebound and defend, we are going to get good looks," said head coach
R-Jay Barsh.
Because of the fast-pace style of play, Grant Bryant and Ryan Atkins were able to capitalize on wide-open opportunities. Atkins, the transfer from West Virginia Tech, was a force to be reckoned with tallying 18 of his 20 total points in the first half. Atkins ended the game shooting 80% from the floor and 67% from beyond the arc. Additionally, Atkins contributed immensely on defense generating five of the Fire's 15 steals.
At the end of the first half, the Fire expanded their lead to 20 with the help of a 10-2 run as the final seconds ticked off the clock.
Southeastern did not let off the gas in the second half outscoring the Tigers by 34. Bryant was red hot for the Fire. The transfer from the University of Tampa, collected 14 of his 20 points during the second half of play. The junior was one rebound shy of a double-double Overall, Bryant was perfect from the floor which aided in the Fire's 55.9% field goal percentage.
CJ Reese, the catalyst last season, recorded a solid first outing, as well. The senior guard managed 17 points while leading the team with four assists.
John Coleman led the way on the Tigers side of the ball with 12 points. The Bible College NIT MVP, shot 50% from downtown.
The mixture of the Fire's new players and old players was one of the main storylines for this evening's contest and
R-Jay Barsh was very pleased with what he saw.
"This group loves each other and the connection with the guys is there," expressed Barsh. "They want to see each other be successful and that is huge."
The Fire will take to the floor again on Saturday in an exhibition match against the Martinique National Team.
