By: Brooks Tait - JCFloridan.com
The Chipola Indians bounced back from their loss to Broward College on Monday night, defeating a strong Miami-Dade team, 83-77. The Indians took an early lead going into the half, 43-27, but had to fend off the Sharks from a comeback from then on. With 12:08 to go, Miami-Dade had fought back to 51-50 in the Sharks' favor, but would eventually lose hope when Chipola regained and held the lead for the last five minutes of the game.
"It was a good, solid team effort across the board," said assistant coach Josh Daeche. "We really pressed them and the guys played hard."
The aggressive defense forced 16 steals for Chipola on the night, 6 of which are credited to Tra-Deon Hollins, who in addition, had 19 points and 7 rebounds. Dejuan Marrero, who starred in the Indians' last win against Lawson State, once again led Chipola with 23 points and 12 rebounds. Junior Saintel also had 11 points, and Greg King had a good game, posting 8 points and an additional 4 rebounds for the Indians. Kevin Scott did not play due to a back injury.
Head coach Patrick Blake said, "I'm very happy with the guys and their effort tonight. We beat a very talented and well-coached team."
"And it's a good way to send the guys off to Thanksgiving Break," said Daeche. The Indians will play again in the Panhandle Classic against Santa Fe at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5, and Brunswick at 3 p.m. on Dec. 6.