Sharks Close Strong Late to Edge Hillsborough

Tampa, FL - The Sharks leaned on defense, rebounding, and free-throw shooting down the stretch to pull away late and defeat Hillsborough Community College, 77–73.

The game remained tight throughout, with Hillsborough taking a narrow 37–36 lead into halftime behind a strong scoring effort from Chandler Davis, who finished with a game-high 28 points. Miami Dade responded in the second half, outscoring the Hawks 41–36 after the break to secure the win.

Anthony Breland led the Sharks offensively with 17 points and 8 rebounds, attacking the glass and converting a perfect 7-for-7 at the free-throw line. Randy Smith added 12 points and 7 rebounds, while David Verstraeten contributed 12 points and anchored the defense with an impressive five blocks.

Miami Dade's depth proved to be a difference-maker as well. Ernesto Rodriguez provided a spark off the bench with 11 points, and Jacopo Van Der Knapp added 9 points and 6 rebounds to help the Sharks control key possessions late.

Despite shooting just 3-for-22 from beyond the arc, Miami Dade dominated at the free-throw line, converting 26-of-32 attempts, and held a 40–29 rebounding edge. The Sharks' ability to generate second-chance opportunities and protect the rim helped offset Hillsborough's offensive pressure and allowed Miami Dade to close out the four-point victory.