When : Friday, November 13th, 7:00PM EST, FAU Arena Internet Broadcast : Here FIT Team Site : Here Players To Watch for FIT F Justin Sedlack G Alvin Tucker Players to watch for FAU F/C Brett Royster G Greg Gantt PG Ray Taylor Assessment : FIT is coming off an exhibition win against St. Kitts which they won in convincing fashion 84-71. The Panthers were picked to finish 6th amongst Sunshine State conference members in the Coaches Poll . But don’t be fooled by that. “They’re like Le Moyne going into Syracuse, looking to make an upset against a division one team. They are very good, and they have got a couple very good players. One of the best players in the (Sunshine Conference) league”, said FAU Head Coach Mike Jarvis. Lynn, which the Owls defeated in blow-out fashion, although picked ahead of the Panthers in the Sunshine Conference, did not have the low post scoring ability FIT has in Justin Sedlack . Sedlack had 23 points in the Panthers win against St. Kitts. This will be a different defensive challenge for FAU, however it is one that they will be able to handle with the insertion of a much more talented squad this year. FAU contested virtually all shots in the post against Lynn. The Owls also showed signs of the developing style of offensive transition basketball Jarvis looks to instill this season behind a speedy bunch of newcomers, and that trend should continue against FIT. Freshman Greg Gantt poured in 18 points on 4 of 6 shooting from long range in his debut against Lynn. Brett Royster looks to be well on his way to Jarvis’ predicted future status of an “SBC All Conference player” after dropping 20 points while registering five swats against the Knights on Tuesday. Royster is known for defense, but the clearly displayed skill improvement he has made on offense during the off-season should add much needed leadership in scoring for the Owl’s post game this year. Ray Taylor’s supporting cast is still adjusting to his skillful style of play and his output will only get better with congruent game time. He very well may take this game over given the chance, as FIT does not have the same level of defensive ability afforded to Lynn. He was able to weave to the basket on a number of occasions against the Knights, and it will be easier against the Panthers. Jarvis said he will continue to explore different starting line-ups early on in the season, aside from Royster. So expect some different sets from the Owls during the course of the contest. Prediction : A good piece of early season scheduling by the FAU staff allows FAU to continue to work out the kinks and get ready for SE Louisiana on November 16th. FAU – 13+
