Florida A&M’s men’s basketball team added another win to its record Saturday against the Maryland-Eastern Shore Hawks 63-55.
The Rattlers were led by senior forward Larry Jackson scoring 18 points, 14 of which were at the free-throw line.
“I’ve been putting a lot of practice at the free-throw line, which I know contributed greatly to the win.” Jackson said, “I even had my mom come rebound for me on vacation days.”
Jackson was thrilled with the Rattlers, and said the team has improved immensely from last season.
Rattler defense held The Hawks to 26 points in the first half. Sophomore forward Amin Stevens had two rebounds and three steals in the first half.
“Coming from our many losses last season, our faith, effort and hard work is finally looking like it’s paying off,” Jackson said.
The Rattlers shot 70.6 percent at the free-throw line and 33.3 percent at the three-point line.
Freshman guard Avery Moore was the games second highest scorer, shooting 50 percent at the three-point line, with a total of 17 points.
“Many teams try to defend me at the three-point line, but we have plays that allow me to score. I’m glad I could help my team,” Moore said.
When asked to evaluate his performance, Moore said he felt he could have had fewer turnovers and will practice harder to better next game.
The Rattlers faced a strong effort from the Hawks who were carried by junior center Tyler Hines and senior guard Kevin White, who made a combined 21 points and 16 rebounds.
Coach Eugene Harris was satisfied with the way his team capitalized on foul shots.
“We’ve been emphasizing heavily on free throw shooting. Anytime you can shoot 70 percent at the foul line, you can win basketball games,” Harris said.
Turnovers and second chance points attributed to many of the Hawks points. The Hawks scored 21 point off of turnovers and capitalized on ten second chance points.
This win continues a three-game winning streak for the Rattlers, the longest of the season.
The Rattlers hope to continue their streak next game against the MEAC’s sixth ranked Delaware State Hornets.