Free throws key in Florida Tech win

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Lynisha Nelson hit two of free throws with 0.07 remaining to lead Florida Tech past Tampa 56-54 Friday evening in the first round of the NCAA Division II Championships.

After Rita Acevedo went 2-of-2 from the free-throw line to tie the game at 54-all with 34 seconds remaining, Tampa had a chance to take the final shot. With eight ticks on the clock, Gianna Messina’s shot was off the mark. Nelson pounced on the rebound and fired a desperation shot just inside the Spartans’ half of the court. On the play, Tampa was called for a foul, sending Nelson to the line for a one-and-one and eventually winning the game for her team.

Ashton McClairen led Tech with 13 points. Briauna Hagins brought down a team-high 11 rebounds.