Polk State College defeated Motlow State Community College 100-92 in men’s basketball Friday in Daytona Beach, opening the Daytona State College Shootout with a comeback victory. Polk State trailed 52-34 in the first half and 53-37 at halftime before outscoring Motlow State 63-39 in the second half. The victory improved Polk State to 3-0.
Eric Dailey led Polk State with 30 points, nine rebounds, five assists and three steals. Ethan Simon and Nicolas Logan each scored 16 points, while Simon shot 6-for-7 from the field and grabbed 10 rebounds. Terell James added 10 points off the bench, and Jaylon Brown finished with nine points and a team-high eight assists.
Polk State takes control after halftime
After Polk State cut the deficit to 65-54, the team used a 14-0 run to take the lead for good. Terell James put Polk State ahead with a breakaway layup with less than 12 minutes remaining. Tyson Pittman led Motlow State with 28 points as the Bucks stayed within striking distance.
Polk State closes out the victory
Polk State led 94-92 with 30 seconds remaining when Ethan Simon made a basket to create a two-possession advantage. Jaylon Brown then made four consecutive free throws to secure the victory. Simon’s efficient shooting, Brown’s playmaking and James’ bench scoring supported Dailey’s all-around performance.
Polk State is scheduled to play Wake Technical Community College on Saturday at 2 p.m. in Daytona Beach. The game will give Polk State an opportunity to remain undefeated after opening the season with three victories. Polk State will enter the matchup after scoring 100 points against Motlow State.
FSB Take
Polk State’s response after trailing 65-54 was the game’s decisive stretch. The 14-0 run erased the deficit, while Simon’s basket and Brown’s four free throws protected the lead in the final minute. At 3-0, Polk State has positioned itself to continue its undefeated start against Wake Technical Community College.
Source: Original report