MIAMI, Fla. ( Nov. 10, 2022) – Florida National put up a stellar performance in a loss to NCAA Division I powerhouse Florida International University. The Panthers came into the contest fresh off its first win of the year against Houston Christian University 77-66. Florida National had just collected its first win over the year against cross-town rival Florida Memorial before entering this exhibition match that does not count for or against the Conqusitadors’ overall season record.
The first half was a complete show of Panther dominance on the hardwood as the home team jumped to a 49-25 lead before halftime. FNU went 9-31 from the field and seemed to struggle on the defensive end. FIU led by as many as 28 thanks to stellar play from Javaunte Hawkins and Arturo Dean.
The second half saw FNU’s offense come to life in the form of Gabriel Casillas. The sharpshooter ended the night with 39 points on 5-14 shooting from behind the arc. Ryan Sanchez also had 19 points in the half where the Conquistadors outscored the Panthers 49-46. But this was not enough to overcome the huge first-half deficit.
Up Next: FNU men’s basketball hits the road for another exhibition this time against Bethune-Cookman University at 7 p.m.
