Tampa, Fla. – The Saint Leo women's basketball team (7-11, 2-9 SSC) traveled to face #24 Tampa in the battle of I-75  on Saturday afternoon, falling to the Spartans (17-4, 9-2 SSC) by a final score of 70-57 at the Bob Martinez Athletics Center.
 

Game Summary:

Saint Leo started strong in the first quarter, keeping pace with Tampa, trailing by only three points 17-14 heading into the second. However, Tampa was able to get their offense going in the second quarter, extending their lead to 12 at halftime.

Saint Leo showed great focus in the third quarter, coming out of the locker room with a quick scoring burst. Freshman  Vanessa McManus hit a pair of key baskets to cut into the Spartans' lead, while graduate student Jumoke Adaramoye continued her dominance on the glass and scored on second-chance opportunities. Tampa, however, responded each time the Lions made a run. The Spartans' ability to knock down timely three-pointers, including a clutch shot by Olivia Davis, kept Saint Leo at bay. Tampa outscored Saint Leo 21-18 in the quarter, pushing their lead to 56-41 heading into the final frame.

The Lions fought valiantly in the fourth quarter, with McManus hitting a three-pointer to ignite a rally. Redshirt junior Chynna Mattair added a key layup to bring the deficit back to single digits, and Saint Leo's defense forced turnovers to create transition opportunities. Tampa was able to make critical plays down the stretch, closing the door on the Lions' comeback attempt as they pulled out the win 70-57. 

Key Performances:

Adaramoye had another stellar performance, recording a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while also contributing two blocks and two steals. 

McManus tied Adaramoye for the team-high in scoring, adding 17 points on 6-of-13 shooting, including two three-pointers. McManus also pulled down seven rebounds.

Junior Alanis Diaz chipped in with eight points and four rebounds, while Mattair contributed seven points and three assists off the bench.

The Lions will return to action on Wednesday, January 29th, as they travel to face the Tritons of Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Fla. tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 PM.

                                        
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