Sharks’ Late Rally Falls Short in 87–79 Loss to Daytona State

Miami Dade's fourth-quarter surge came too late on Wednesday night, as the Sharks fell 87–79 to Daytona State at home despite a furious final push that saw them outscore the Falcons 24–11 in the closing period.

Daytona controlled the middle frames, using a 31-point second quarter and a 27-point third to build a lead that ballooned to 23 midway through the third. Miami Dade struggled to find rhythm offensively during that stretch while the Falcons' perimeter shooting and second-chance points created separation. Daytona knocked down 12 threes and finished with 48 rebounds, including 13 on the offensive glass.

The Sharks, however, refused to fold. Jazmyne Bynum was electric all night and especially down the stretch, powering the comeback with a game-high 28 points, including five threes, while attacking downhill to generate momentum in transition. Meredith Venner continued her strong form with 19 points and 12 rebounds, anchoring the interior and sparking several of the runs that kept Miami Dade within striking distance.

Riana Callihan added 11 points, 11 rebounds, and four blocks in a high-energy performance off the bench, while Saige McCloud chipped in 12 points and seven boards. Miami Dade's defensive pressure in the fourth quarter forced a series of turnovers and finally slowed Daytona's spacing, allowing the Sharks to trim the deficit to five inside the final three minutes.

But early foul trouble, missed free throws, and the deep hole created during the second and third quarters ultimately proved too much to overcome. Daytona closed the game at the line, converting four free throws in the final minute to hold off the Sharks.

Miami Dade drops to 4-5 and returns to action later this week as they look to regroup and carry Tuesday's late energy into a full 40-minute performance.