SAINT LEO, Fla. – The Saint Leo University Men's basketball team will begin 2023 on the road, as the Lions travel to Miami Shores, Fla. for its Sunshine State Conference matchup against Barry.
 
After a week break for Christmas, Saint Leo (10-4, 2-2 SSC) returned to the gym to begin preparation for the Buccaneers (5-4, 1-3 SSC).  The Green & Gold finished December averaging over 54% from the field and will look to continue its shooting consistency going into the new year.  Fifth-year forward Marty Jackson enters Sunday's contest averaging 20 points from the previous five contests.
 
While Barry comes straight off an 88-79 defeat at the hands of Embry Riddle (Fla.), the Buccaneers have developed some offensive rhythm, shooting a .496 average from the floor in the last three games.  BU is led by its long-range sniper in Nick Anderson, averaging 15 points a game from over 42% outside the arch while picking up 1.4 steals per contest.  Malik Stanley has been another key contributor for the Red & Black, posting season averages of 12 points with a 50% conversion rate from the floor and over 51% from beyond the perimeter.
 
Defensively, Barry is a force to be reckoned with in the paint, averaging over four blocks a game.  The Bucs rely on Amari Haynes (1.4 blocks) and Jacob Montgomery (1.0 blocks) to guard inside the box.
 
Sunday will mark the 35th, overall meeting between the Lions and the Bucs, with the series deadlocked 17-17.
 
Tipoff at the Health & Sports Center is scheduled for 4 p.m.  Fans can follow the live action by accessing the links below:
 
LIVE STATS
 
LIVE VIDEO


 
For the latest news, updates, and information on Saint Leo Men's basketball, visit SaintLeoLions.com. Fans can also stay up-to-date on the latest Lions news by following Saint Leo Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.