Isaiah Thompson led Florida Gulf Coast University in scoring with 15 points off the bench as Florida Gulf Coast University dropped its first game at the U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam, 70-61, to Missouri State University Friday night in St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.
The Eagles (1-3) were unable to overcome a hot start from the field by MSU (2-1). The Bears were 16-of-25 from the field in the opening 20 minutes, including 8-of-13 from 3-point territory, en route to opening up a 42-29 lead at halftime.
The lead would get as high as 20 in the second half for MSU, but the Eagles would mount a late rally. Thompson and
Keeshawn Kellman combined to score the final 14 points of the game for the Eagles as FGCU pulled within seven in the waning minutes of the contest. That would be as close as the Green & Blue would get as two free-throws in the final 35 seconds by MSU accounted for the final points of the game.
FGCU had statistical advantages in several categories, including points in the paint (32-22), bench points (29-11), and points off turnovers (17-11). Ultimately, 3-point shooting proved to be the biggest factor as MSU went 12-of-25 while FGCU was 4-of-19 as a unit.
The Eagles will continue their time at the Paradise Jam with a Saturday evening contest against Hampton University. Tip time is set for 5:45 p.m. EST with coverage available on ESPN+.
