Moody’s Late Three Pointer Produces Go Ahead Score They says third times a charm, and it was for the Owls, who fought back for a 58-55 win over American University in Florida Atlantics 2012-13 home opener on Saturday afternoon. After losing the last two against the Eagles, FAU (2-3) buckled down to victory thanks to crucial points down the stretch from Stefan Moody. Right now, for this team at this stage of the year, for as young as we are, I thought it showed a lot of character, said Coach Mike Jarvis of his teams performance. FAU led by as many as eight points late in the first period, but saw guard John Schoof drain three straight treys for the Eagles en route to a 9-2 closing run during the final 1:42, leaving the Owls embracing a slim 31-30 lead at intermission. With both sides turning up the defensive pressure in the second half, American (2-3) continued to fight, taking the lead back on three separate occasions, including a 55-52 advantage with 1:21 to play. Moody managed just eight points for the contest, but saw five of those occur within the last :14 seconds. None were bigger than the three made from long range which put the Owls in front for good. I just found myself open, said Moody of the long range opportunity. He later converted two opportunities at the free throw line for the games final tally. He is our best offensive player, he had the guts to stand up and take the big shot and make it, said Coach Mike Jarvis. When weve got the ball I expect him to try and make something happen. FAU posted their first positive assist to turnover effort on the year, led by Jackson Trapp, who finished with 12 points and six of the teams 10 dishes. Jackson Trapp had an outstanding game did a great job running the team, Jarvis said. The Owls were also able to limit American forward Stephen Lumpkins (pictured against Trapp above) to five points and four rebounds below his respective averages against them in their in their two previous outings. This was aided in part by Kelvin Penns game high three blocks. All of which were worthy of the highlight reel. Kelvin Penn I thought made a couple of huge blocks, didnt give up on plays, and gave us a defensive presence in the middle, said Jarvis. Greg Gantt was the games leading scorer, pouring in a season best 23 points. The senior finished with a 5-of-10 showing from three point land. Florida Atlantic will open conference play early this season, next hosting South Alabama on Thursday night at 7:00 PM in the second of a three game home stand.
