Second Half Performance By Rashad Callaway Leads Tampa To Victory

MIAMI SHORES, Fla. - The University of Tampa (8-0, 1-0 SSC) continued its record-breaking start with a 73-64 victory over Barry University (2-5, 0-1 SSC) in its Sunshine State Conference opener as Rashad Callaway netted 21 points in the second half to lead his team to a victory.

Following a pair of free throws by UT's Ashton Graham to give the Spartans a brief lead, the Buccaneers held the advantage until the final possession of the first half. Trailing by as many as seven points, Tampa went on a 7-2 run to close out the half, taking a 27-26 lead to the break.

The Spartans pulled away in the second half behind Callaway's strong effort. Head coach Richard Schmidt's squad took a 29-28 lead with 18:46 to play and held the momentum for the remainder of the contest. After stretching the lead to double figures with 15:32 remaining, UT led by as many as 14 points as it cruised to victory.

Callaway's success came from long range as he finished 7-for-11 from 3-point range. The senior from Bayonne, N.J., led all scorers with 30 points and also held team honors with six rebounds and three assists.

Anthony Griffis added 21 points as Rudy Jean came off the bench to tally three assists. Tampa connected on 10 shots from beyond the arc, compared to six for the Buccaneers. UT also forced 18 Barry turnovers.

UT returns to action on Monday when it travels to West Palm Beach for a 7 p.m. meeting with Palm Beach Atlantic University. Live stats will be available through www.tampaspartans.com.

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