LAKELAND, Fla. - The Furnace hosted tonight's Sun Conference contest between Keiser University and Southeastern University which surely did not disappoint. Action on the blocks was thought to to be an area of focus prior to the game, however, as the seconds ticked off the clock it was the talent of two guards that proved to be the deciding factor.
Led by CJ Reese and Ryan Atkins' electrifying style of play, the Fire solidified an 88-78 victory over the Seahawks. This marks the Fire's sixth consecutive win as they remain undefeated in Sun Conference action.
The explosiveness by both men appeared to be tough to contain for the Seahawks. Atkins was automatic from the opening tip recording a season high 34 points. Complementing Atkins, Reese tallied 22 points and three assists.
After jumping out to an early 12-3 lead, Keiser appeared to be in the driver's seat. However, timely adjustments made by the Fire coaching staff allowed the press defense to be the great equalizer.
Through consecutive stops, the Fire were able to answer right back with a 12-0 run of their own and regain the lead. From this point forward, the Fire never surrendered the lead back to the Seahawks.
The Fire's lead at halftime was not only attributed to the high-power scoring showcased by Atkins and Reese, but also to the rebounding efforts by Isaac Barsh. Of his eight total rebounds in the first half alone, four came off the offensive glass. Barsh proceeded to end the game with 15 boards.
Transitioning into the final 20 minutes of play, Keiser made an adjustment in the locker room that allowed, their dominant forward, Deion McClenton a few more opportunities under the basket. McClenton, who was averaging a double-double going into the game, scored 18 points in the second half, finishing with 24 points and 11 rebounds.
Just as the Seahawks were able to generate a few more chances for McClenton, the Fire never lifted their foot off the gas pedal. Although the Seahawks had five members with double-digit points, it was not enough to catch the Fire in the second half. Outscoring opponents 400-304 in the second half, Southeastern rattled off 45 in the final half.
Drawing contact in the paint allowed the Fire to take plenty trips to the charity stripe. The Fire shot just south of 80% from the foul line.
Southeastern will back back in action on Monday as they battle NCAA Division II Rollins in an exhibition match. Tip off set for 7 p.m. EST.
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