Florida Atlantic University’s men’s basketball team secured a 77-72 victory over Temple University on Thursday night at Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena in Boca Raton, completing a season sweep of the Temple Owls.
The game saw FAU (16-13, 8-8) come from behind after trailing at halftime. In the first half, Temple shot 63.6% from three-point range, making seven shots from beyond the arc. However, FAU’s defense tightened in the second half, holding Temple scoreless from three-point distance.
FAU started strong with early baskets by freshman Josiah Parker and Kanaan Carlyle but fell behind after an 11-0 run by Temple. Xander Pintelon contributed off the bench with eight points for FAU during the first half. The home team managed to cut its deficit to six points by halftime, going into the break down 44-38.
After halftime, FAU went on an 8-0 run to regain the lead. Freshman guard Yohann Sissoko scored seven points in just over a minute as FAU extended its advantage to double digits for the first time that evening.
Temple responded late in the game, taking a one-point lead with just over a minute left following a layup by Derrian Ford. FAU quickly answered as Carlyle made free throws to put his team ahead again. Redshirt freshman Amar Amkou then converted an and-one play to increase the lead to three points. Florida Atlantic held defensively in the final moments and closed out with a five-point win.
Kanaan Carlyle led all scorers with 22 points on 7-for-15 shooting and hit 40% of his attempts from three-point range. Josiah Parker finished just shy of a double-double with nine points and 11 rebounds while recording a +18 rating for the game. Yohann Sissoko reached double figures for only the third time this season with ten points.
Niccolo Moretti had five assists for FAU, marking his third consecutive game with at least five assists. The bench played a significant role as well; FAU outscored Temple’s reserves 25 to 5.
Florida Atlantic will return home on Sunday, March 1, for its final regular-season home game against Charlotte at Abessinio Court inside Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena. The program will recognize its five senior managers before tipoff.
For updates on Florida Atlantic men’s basketball, fans are encouraged to follow @FAUMBB on social media platforms.
Florida Atlantic’s current season is sponsored by Phil Smith Kia/Phil Smith Acura.
