Second-Half Surge Propels University of Fort Lauderdale Men's Basketball Past URBE University
By
Monte Perez
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — A dominant second-half performance carried the University of Fort Lauderdale (UFTL) Men's Basketball team to a hard-fought 91-72 victory over URBE University at Joseph C. Carter Park. After entering the locker room with a slim one-point lead, the Eagles erupted after the break, outscoring URBE 51-33 in the final 20 minutes to seal the win.
The opening half was a tightly contested, back-and-forth battle that saw both squads trade momentum with matching 6-0 runs. Despite the early pressure from URBE, Fort Lauderdale managed to edge ahead 40-39 at halftime.
Head Coach
David Graham and his staff made decisive adjustments at the intermission, and the results showed immediately on the court. The Eagles steadily pulled away, building a 68-59 cushion midway through the second half before closing the door for good.
Leading the charge was guard Jagger Ruiz (#10), who got the nod to start the second half and delivered a flawless, stat-stuffing performance. In 35 minutes of action, Ruiz was perfection personified:
- Shooting: 10-for-10 from the floor, including 3-for-3 from beyond the arc and 1-for-1 from the free-throw line (24 points).
- Playmaking & Rebounding: 8 rebounds and 7 assists.
- Ball Security: Zero turnovers.
Ruiz had plenty of offensive help from a balanced Eagles attack.
Gabe Chang (#5) was lethal from the field, shooting 9-for-12 to finish with 21 points and 6 assists.
DeMarcus Forbes (#12) caught fire from long range, knocking down 5-of-8 three-pointers on his way to 19 points and 5 assists. Meanwhile, the front court tandem of
Chad Anglin (#24) and
Shaquille Furlonge (#15) anchored the paint, combining for 20 points and 8 rebounds.
HOME COOKING:
Joseph C. Carter Park continues to be a fortress for Fort Lauderdale. Through their first two home contests of the season, the Eagles boast a spotless 2-0 record and have overwhelmed visiting opponents by a combined score of 192-144.
Up Next:
The Eagles will pack their bags and hit the road for their next challenge, traveling to take on Florida Memorial University on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.
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