Sharks Pull Away Late to Top Eastern Florida
Miami Dade delivered a poised, high-level performance to earn an 83–73 win over Eastern Florida State , controlling the game with physicality and timely execution on both ends of the floor.
The Sharks set the tone early, edging ahead in the opening quarter before breaking the game open in the second. Miami Dade dominated that stretch with a 31–16 surge, fueled by defensive pressure that disrupted EFSC's rhythm and led to transition opportunities. The run gave the Sharks a commanding 51–35 advantage at the break and firmly established control of the contest.
Eastern Florida made its push coming out of halftime, winning the third quarter 21–10 behind improved shooting and energy on the glass. Miami Dade absorbed the run, settled back into its game plan, and responded with composure in the final period. The Sharks closed strong with 22 fourth-quarter points, executing in half-court sets and knocking down free throws to keep EFSC at arm's length.
Constanza Aravena was the catalyst offensively, pouring in a game-high 26 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including four triples. Jazmyne Bynum impacted every phase of the game, finishing with 22 points, eight assists, and six steals, consistently creating scoring chances while setting the defensive tone. Meredith Venner anchored the interior with a double-double of 13 points and 15 rebounds, controlling the glass and protecting the paint, while Saige McCloud provided a steady lift off the bench with eight points.
Miami Dade imposed its will in the closing minutes, leaning on disciplined defense and composure down the stretch to seal the victory. The Sharks finished with a 35–22 rebounding advantage and forced 30 turnovers, consistently turning stops into points when it mattered most. That late-game execution allowed Miami Dade to pull away for good and secure an 83–73 win as it continues to build momentum heading into the next stretch of conference play.
