Florida Atlantic University’s men’s basketball team lost a close game to East Carolina University, 76-75, on Sunday at Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena in Boca Raton. The Owls now hold a record of 14-9 overall and 6-4 in conference play, while the Pirates move to 7-15 overall and 2-7 in conference.
The match was competitive throughout, with six lead changes occurring in the final four minutes. Sophomore guard Isaiah Elohim and freshman guard Josiah Parker led strong second-half efforts for Florida Atlantic. In the game’s last moments, a missed free throw by East Carolina gave Elohim an opportunity for a final shot at the buzzer, but it did not go in.
In the first half, redshirt sophomore guard Devin Vanterpool scored eight points on his first three shots and finished with 11 points in the opening ten minutes. The Owls built an early twelve-point lead before East Carolina rallied to take control. Vanterpool’s fourth three-pointer of the half briefly put FAU ahead again late in the period, but ECU closed out with free throws to lead 38-36 at halftime.
After halftime, Elohim scored two quick baskets inside to regain the lead for FAU. The Owls focused their offense near the basket early in the second half. With just over four minutes left and trailing by three points, Parker converted a three-point play to bring FAU within one point. A free throw from Elohim tied it at 65.
Elohim then hit a three-pointer from the left corner to give Florida Atlantic a three-point advantage with about three-and-a-half minutes remaining. East Carolina responded with their own three-pointer as time expired on their shot clock and then took back the lead on their next possession.
Both teams continued trading scores down the stretch. Elohim made another shot from beyond the arc to put FAU up by one point with only 27 seconds left. However, after fouling ECU and allowing them two free throws that retook the lead for East Carolina, Florida Atlantic drew its own foul but could not convert at the line during a crucial one-and-one situation.
A missed free throw by ECU set up one last chance for FAU; however, Elohim’s attempt as time expired was unsuccessful.
“Elohim set his collegiate career high with 20 points, 13 of them coming in the second half.” “Parker finished with 15 points, scoring 13 in the second.” “Redshirt sophomore forward Devin Williams, who entered the day ranked No. 3 nationally in blocks, finished with four. He also hauled in a team-best nine rebounds.” “As a team, the Owls dished out 20 assists for the third time in American play this season.” “Florida Atlantic outshot East Carolina from the field, 50.9% to 42.6%.”
Florida Atlantic will remain at home to host Tulsa on Wednesday, February 4th at Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena; tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m., and coverage will be available on ESPN+.
To follow updates about Florida Atlantic men’s basketball games or news throughout their season sponsored by Phil Smith Kia/Phil Smith Acura fans can find information via social media @FAUMBB.
