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BOCA RATON – Gerdarius Troutman’s fast-break three-pointer with 45 seconds remaining gave FAU a lead it wouldn’t relinquish in a 77-72 victory over FIU.
Trailing 70-69, Payton Hulsey grabbed a long rebound and pushed it up the court before finding Troutman on the left wing. Troutman caught the pass and launched, without the aid of a dribble, a high arching shot that found the bottom of the net.
The victory snaps a four game FAU losing streak. During that run the Owls consistently failed to perform in the closing minutes of games. For a moment on Saturday that looked like it could happen again.
Ronald Delph’s dunk gave FAU a 56-51 lead midway through the second half. Following a timeout, FIU scored the next six points to retake the lead. Neither team led by more than two points until two free throws by Delph put the Owls up by four with 23 seconds remaining.
FAU drained five of six free throws in the final minutes.
Delph led all scorers with 18 points despite playing with four fouls for the final nine minutes.
The victory avenged a one-possession loss to FIU in January and pulled the Owls even with the Panthers for 10th place in C-USA play. It also allowed the Owls to surpass last season’s win total of 11.
GameBrowser: FAU (11-15, 5-9) 77, FIU (11-16, 5-9) 72
Moving Forward: Justin Massey found his shooting range again. His 18-point night included 4-of-9 shooting from behind the arc. …Ten of Gerdarius Troutman’s 15 points came in the second half. …Payton Hulsey recorded eight assists.
Moving Backward: Guard Anthony Adger didn’t score during his 12 minutes, missing all three of his shots. …FIU out-rebounded FAU 37-31.
Key Stat: 70+ – points for FAU on Saturday. The Owls have yet to lose this season when scoring at least 70 points.
Up Next: Rice comes to Boca Raton on Thursday. Tip-off at The Burrow is scheduled for 7 p.m. victory could potentially secure a spot for FAU in the C-USA tournament.
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