Jacksonville’s Jakari Spence Shines in Big Win Over Florida Tech
Jacksonville, Fla. – In an exciting matchup on Thursday night, the Jacksonville Dolphins men’s basketball team secured a commanding 88-67 victory over the Florida Tech Panthers. The game showcased a standout performance from guard Jakari Spence, who tallied a career-high 20 points on his home court.
Game Overview
The Dolphins faced a competitive first half, leading 38-33 at the break. However, they surged in the second half, exploding for 50 points that overwhelmed the Panthers. Spence led the way with his impressive shooting, finishing the night 7-10 from the field and a perfect 6-6 from the free-throw line. His final two points from the charity stripe marked a special moment as he touched his tattoo, a ritual that holds deep meaning for him.
Key Players
Spence wasn’t the only Dolphin to shine. His teammates also contributed significantly to the victory. Robert McCray V had a stellar showing with 17 points on 6-9 shooting, alongside four rebounds and six assists. He notably had a three-minute stretch where he scored 10 consecutive points, highlighting his scoring ability.
Stephon Payne III added 14 points and helped dominate the boards with seven rebounds. Donovan Rivers also made his mark, scoring a career-best 11 points in just 16 minutes of play.
Spence was just shy of a double-double, ending the game with eight assists and only one turnover. He expressed satisfaction with limiting his turnovers, noting, “Only having one turnover is big for me.”
Leadership and Team Spirit
Spence, who played 29 minutes, emphasized his role as a leader on the team. “I just think I am a leader,” he stated. Spence acknowledged the trust his teammates and coaches place in him, making it evident that his performance was driven by a shared commitment to winning.
Post-Game Reflections
After a difficult loss against Georgia in their previous outing, this victory was crucial for the Dolphins as they prepare for their upcoming game against Florida Atlantic University next Tuesday, December 10. Spence expressed his feelings about the win, saying, “I am happy we got a win at the end of the day. I don’t care if I have zero points. If we win, I am OK.”
Looking Ahead
The Dolphins are set to travel to Boca Raton for a challenging matchup against the Florida Atlantic Owls. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m., and fans can watch the game on ESPN+. Following this win, Jacksonville will aim to build momentum and continue improving as the season progresses.
Final Thoughts
Jakari Spence’s remarkable performance, anchored by his scoring and playmaking, has ignited a wave of positivity around the team. With contributions from multiple players and a strong sense of team spirit, Jacksonville is poised for an exciting continuation of the basketball season.
