Friday, January 08, 2010

The eighth year of the CSS/Atlantic Sun Game of the Week package begins with UNF heading south to take on FGCU. Both schools have played better of late as the Ospreys have fi ve wins in their last six games while the Eagles, own victories in fi ve of their last seven contests.

UNF freshman Andy Diaz has averaged 10.7 points while connecting on 60.9 percent from the floor in those last six games. FGCU’s offense has increased its scoring from 61.0 points per game in its first six games to 73.7 points in its last seven. Eagle junior Reed Baker has topped double figures in scoring in each of the seven games, averaging 16.4 points per game.

For the second straight year, FGCU hosts UNF as part of the CSS/Atlantic Sun Game of the Week package. In last year’s meeting, FGCU rallied from an 11-point halftime deficit to win 50-44. After ice-cold shooting in the opening 20 minutes, FGCU shot an even 50 percent and made 13 more free throws in the second half than UNF

Under first-year head coach Matt Driscoll, the Ospreys have experienced one of the top turnarounds in the nation. According to CollegeRPI.com’s daily ratings, UNF has improved its standing from last year’s final rating by 150 places, tying for the 10th-best improvement in the country.

Matt Stewart and Sonny Smith will be on the call. Cox cable subscribers can catch the game later Friday, airing on same-day delay at 11:00 p.m. In central Florida, Bright House Sports Network will carry the game on tape delay at 2:00 p.m. on Monday. For those outside these markets, catch all the action on ASun.TV, ESPN360.com or on ESPN Full Court.