LAKELAND, Fla. -- Behind another efficient offensive night and one of its cleanest performances of the season, Southeastern Men's Basketball pulled away late to secure a 92–78 home victory over New College of Florida on Saturday afternoon inside The Furnace.
The Fire (15-2, 5-1 Sun Conference) shot 48.4 percent from the field and went 26-of-29 at the free throw line, while committing just nine turnovers — the fourth time this season Southeastern has finished with single-digit giveaways and its fewest since November 7. That ball security translated directly into production, as the Fire scored 19 points off turnovers and controlled the tempo throughout the second half.
Mylo Santos continued his strong January stretch with 23 points, marking his seventh 20-point performance of the season and his third in the last four games. Santos consistently pressured the defense off the bounce, finishing 7-of-15 from the floor and 9-of-10 at the line. He scored 14 of his points after halftime and added four steals, helping Southeastern create separation during key stretches.
Southeastern carried a 49–39 lead into halftime after shooting nearly 55 percent in the opening period.
Daivion Traylor was efficient early, scoring 12 of his 15 points in the first half on 6-of-7 shooting, while
LaDavian King provided a spark off the bench. King finished with 19 points, including three three-pointers, as the Fire bench combined for 33 points.
New College stayed within striking distance behind Diego Eslava's 28-point performance, trimming the margin to five midway through the second half. Each push, however, was met with timely responses from Southeastern, as Santos and King fueled a late run that put the game out of reach. The Fire closed the final minutes with composure, converting free throws and limiting perimeter opportunities.
Nathan Mikkelson anchored the interior with 11 rebounds, contributing to Southeastern's 38–32 rebounding edge and a 40–16 advantage in points in the paint.
Jayson Nixon added 10 points and five assists, further stabilizing the Fire offense as Southeastern secured another conference victory at home.
Southeastern returns to action on Wednesday, January 14, hosting Warner at 7:30 p.m. inside The Furnace as the Fire continue Sun Conference play in Lakeland.
