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The Bulls, 6-8 (0-3), fell 65 to 84 to SMU on the road. USF fought but it was just not enough on both ends of the court against the top team (standings-wise) in the AAC.
USF was down 30 to 44 at the end of the first half, shooting 39% from the floor while the Mustangs shot a blistering 64% from the field. USF was also down 11 to 17 in the rebounding battle as Coach Murry Bartow’s crew fought hard, but just could not keep pace with the Mustangs. Troy Holston had 12 points (all on 3-point shots) to lead the good guys.
In the second half, the Bulls went on an 11-1 run to come within 10 points of the Mustangs, but a 3 minute period without a basket and hot shooting from the Mustangs allowed them to extend the lead back to 20 points. It was a tough game, but the Bulls just could not hit enough shots to keep pace with the Mustangs.
USF shot 44% for the game while the Mustangs shot 55% for the game. USF also lost the rebounding battle at 23 to 39 as well. It was just that kind of game again for this group.
Holston led the way for the Bulls with 20 points (6 for 14 from 3-point range) and added 3 assists. Tulio Da Silva had 12 points and 9 rebounds. Geno Thorpe had 16 points, 3 rebounds, and 6 assists. Malik Fitts had 8 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists. Mike Bibby had 6 points on two three pointers late in the game.
Semi Ojeleye had 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead the Mustangs.
USF will return home to take on Tulane on Wednesday night (game begins at 7 PM) as they try to snap this losing streak and get back in the win column for Coach Bartow.
by Matt Staton
SoFloBulls.com Columnist | @USFMatt
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