Eckerd Scores Senior Day Win over Florida Southern

Box Score ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - The Eckerd men's basketball team capped the regular season with a payback win, building a big lead early and cruising to a 98-82 victory over Florida Southern on Saturday in the McArthur Center.

The Tritons (20-7, 13-5 SSC) placed five players in double-figures as they locked up the No. 2 seed in next week's Sunshine State Conference tournament.

"We did what we were supposed to do," said Eckerd head coach Tom Ryan.  "We defended and rebounded and played with energy.  When we do those things, we have a chance to win."

A 12-2 run midway through the first half opened up a 14-point lead for Eckerd, with Drushaun McLaurn scoring six points during the run.  

Moments later, a McLaurn dunk on a fast break capped a 9-0 run that gave the Tritons a 46-29 lead with 1:09 left in the half.

Eckerd used another 9-0 run early in the second half to extend its lead to 21 points and held onto a double-digit lead for the rest of the game.

Ryan was pleased with his team's defensive effort against a potent Mocs offense, particularly in the first half.

"We played against a team that can score today," he said.  "We did a really nice job against them in the first half."

All four seniors started on senior day for Eckerd, and all four delivered with solid performances.  Obi Kyei recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds, his second of the year.  Matt Beneduci knocked down four 3-pointers on the way to 17 points.  Kevin Walsh added 13 and Shane Phillips contributed nine.

McLaurn came off the bench to lead Eckerd with 20 points, 16 of which came in the first half.  Trevon Young also had a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds.

Eckerd will host Florida Southern again on Wednesday in the first round of the Sunshine State Conference tournament.  Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 following the women's game.