Phenom Hoops tuned in to watch two teams battle it out at the Florida Tip-Off, as East Carolina hit the road to take on the Florida Gators on Thursday night. Two teams with six wins apiece took the floor in hopes of earning a solid victory. Florida came out strong and was able to build a lead behind 20 first-half points from Walter Clayton Jr. His play, along with others, helped Florida secure a 37-30 halftime lead. But the Pirates would continue to fight and eventually cut this game down to a one-possession game late in the second half. Though ECU had a chance, down 67-65, to secure a defensive rebound, it was the Gators’ Tyrese Samuel who got a big offensive board and putback to put it back to a two-possession game, and ultimately help seal the win for Florida.
Final: Florida 70 – East Carolina 65
Stats:
UF: Walter Clayton Jr. 22pts/ Tyrese Samuel 11pts/ Zyon Pullin 11pts
ECU: Ezra Ausar 14pts/ RJ Felton 14pts/ Brandon Johnson 12pts
Game Notes:
Florida was able to secure this win in two categories: fast break points and also on the boards. The Gators outscored the Pirates 20-4 in fast break points, getting out and showing why they are one of the top teams in transition. They also were strong on the boards, holding a 51-32 rebounding edge, which included 21 offensive rebounds.
Player Standouts:
Walter Clayton (Florida): Clayton scored 20 of his 22 points in the first half, really elevating his play and helping his team get out to a strong start. He scored in a variety of ways inside and out, off the bounce as well to lead the way. In the second half, he allowed others to get involved and didn
