NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Atlantis University built a commanding first-half lead and survived a furious second-half comeback by Trinity College of Florida to claim a 79-72 men’s college basketball victory Wednesday night.

The Atlanteans dominated the opening half, outscoring the Tigers 43-19 to take a 24-point advantage into intermission. Trinity responded with 53 second-half points, cutting into the deficit, but Atlantis held on for the seven-point victory.

Ornie Brooks and Stewart Clough scored 17 points apiece to lead Atlantis (2-3). Brooks added six steals and four assists, while Clough grabbed seven rebounds and collected three steals. Galen Waters contributed 15 points, including three 3-pointers, and Tyric Francois added nine.

Brighton Kalizi led Trinity with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Donald Nunnery and Thomas Dayer scored 17 apiece, with Nunnery connecting on five 3-pointers. David Larkins added 10 points and six assists.

Atlantis shot 42.6% from the field compared with Trinity’s 38.9%. The Atlanteans also recorded 16 steals in the victory.

Image courtesy TCF Athletics