January 4, 2015

Gainesville, FL – Jaquel Taft had the best game of his young collegiate career, scoring 18 points, including 14 in the second half, to help the shorthanded Saints overcome a 16 point deficit against Wytheville CC (VA).

"I'm very happy with our guys today," said SF Coach Chris Mowry.  "We had very limited numbers and everybody contributed."

SF (11-6) dressed only seven players and appeared to be running out of gas in the second period when an eight point halftime lead for the Wildcats turned into a 16 point advantage (52-36) with 11:50 remaining.

Following two Tylan Birts free throws, Coach Chris Mowry called a timeout to discuss playing tougher on defense and taking care of the ball, two things lacking during the run by Wytheville.

The Saints responded by going on a 21-6 run to take their first lead of the game 59-58.  A three pointer by the Wildcats with one minute to play tied the game at 65-65, but from there it was all SF.

Allen Baez slashed to the hoop for two and five made free throws later and a Taft layup made it a nine point lead, sealing the win for the Saints.

Taft and Michael Sanchez each finished with 18 points for SF, Tylan Birts had 15, and Allen Baez finished with 11.  Kadeem Wright led the Wildcats with 25 points, and Christian Kirchman had 20.

The Saints will remain at home for a game against State College of Florida on Wednesday, January 7 at 7:00 PM.

For a full schedule, please visit www.santafesaints.com.  To watch live Saints games, visit www.ihigh.com/santafesaints

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