Sharks Battle on the Road but Fall to Santa Fe

Miami Dade put together a gritty road effort Saturday night but came up short in an 82–75 loss to Santa Fe College.

The Sharks went punch for punch with the Saints for most of the night, trailing just 36–34 at the break after a tightly contested first half. Miami Dade shot efficiently and moved the ball well offensively, but Santa Fe used a strong second-half surge to create separation and hold off a late Sharks push.

David Verstraeten anchored the Miami Dade offense with a game-high 22 points, scoring efficiently at the rim and in transition while adding five assists. The freshman forward finished 10-of-15 from the field and consistently kept the Sharks within striking distance.

Anthony Breland followed with 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists in a complete performance from the guard spot. Breland knocked down a pair of three-pointers and was aggressive attacking the basket, helping Miami Dade stay competitive during key stretches of the second half.

Joachim Kouassi provided a strong spark off the bench, scoring nine points on a perfect 3-for-3 shooting night while adding a block in limited minutes. Randy Smith and Leeroy Nijean contributed defensively, combining for five steals as the Sharks applied pressure throughout the game.

Miami Dade shot 45.6 percent from the field and nearly 89 percent from the free-throw line, but Santa Fe capitalized on key possessions late and built enough of a cushion to withstand the Sharks' final rally.

The Sharks will look to bounce back and regain momentum as conference play continues next week.