FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The Saint Leo men's basketball team lost on the road against #1 Nova Southeastern in Sunshine State Conference (SSC) action on Saturday evening.

The Lions trailed 42-24 at halftime and were unable to overcome their deficit despite scoring 46 points in the second frame.

Junior Luther Smith Jr. led Saint Leo with 15 points, knocking down four 3-pointers. Junior Jayden Johnson added 14 points off the bench on 4-of-5 shooting, including 3 for 4 from beyond the arc. Senior Matt Ansah finished with 12 points and six rebounds, while junior Elijah Harris pulled down a team-high six boards.

The Lions shot 40% (24 for 60) from the field and 31% (9 for 29) from 3-point range. Saint Leo found more offensive rhythm in the second half, shooting nearly 53% after the break.

The Lions will return home to host Tampa on Wednesday, February 25 in a conference showdown at 7:30 p.m.