Southeastern University is always a tough opponent for the men’s basketball team, especially when they meet in Lakeland. This year, the Falcons began their season with an 87-75 win on November 3 over the Fire. Senior Pete Alexandrou led the team in scoring with 28 points and seven rebounds. Senior Blake Elrod was the rebounding leader with 12.

In their home opener on Thursday, the men soundly defeated Montreat College 71-59. Junior Jesse Hastings had 16 points and Elrod pulled down nine rebounds.

The next evening, the men would pull their record to 3-0 against the College of the Bahamas with an 88-75 win. Freshmen Charles Murphy and Colin Houston led the team with eight rebounds and each added nine points.

On Tuesday night, NAIA #14 Embry-Riddle University traveled to Conn Gymnasium. The first half was a fast paced race for the lead and FC began with a 5-1 advantage. ERU took a 12-11 lead before freshman Jordan Mitchell scored two quick jumpers to put the Falcons ahead. FC benefited from their long-range shooting, as they went three for five in the early stages of the game. The half ended with Florida College ahead 38-35.

The second half began much slower for the Falcons. Three early turnovers allowed the Eagles to go up 8-1 early in the half. Embry-Riddle shut down Falcon shooting with several blocks in the second half and also controlled rebounding. Around the ten minute mark, Hastings brought FC within five, but ERU pulled away and won 87-65.

With four minutes left in the game, Alexandrou went down with a knee injury and would not return. He led in scoring with 24 points and Hastings added 20. Alexandrou’s injury could be huge for the team; he has scored in the double digits in all four games.

Sophomore Nic Gilbert commented on the second half performance. “The starters began wearing down and didn’t start off (the second half) as hot. Embry-Riddle had a lot of second chance shots and rebounds,” said Gilbert.

The men play again Saturday at Johnson & Wales University at 2:00 PM and hope to avenge their February homecoming loss to the Wildcats. They will be at home again next Tuesday against Clearwater Christian College at 7:00 PM.

Falcon supporters are helping put a new floor in Conn Gymnasium. Some have made a pledge to donate for every three-point shot made this season. Help make a Score For The Floor.

Listen to all home games by podcast through Apple’s iTunes.