Raiders rebound with big second half to down TCC 79-58

NICEVILLE, FL - With a formidable foe in town and an exponential eagerness to get back in the win column, the Raiders were very anxious for Wednesday's tip-off against Tallahassee Community College.  TCC had challenged NWF until the game's final minute in their first meeting held in the State's capital city and the Raiders knew the target on their backs became even larger after first conference loss to Chipola.  With all those factors in mind, #4 Northwest Florida displayed a large sense of urgency throughout the game, especially in the second half, to outpace the visiting Eagles 79-58.  The win moves NWF's overall record to 22-2 and 6-1 in conference play.

Northwest Florida started the game just how Coach Greg Heiar drew it up.  Big time shot making, tenacious defense, and high energy led to the Raiders jumping out to a double digit lead in the game's first 10 minutes.  The Eagles, however, dug their heels in and clawed back, thanks to a defensive pressure that forced numerous Raider turnovers.  By the end of the first half, the score was knotted at 33 apiece and NWF was in need of halftime adjustments.

As has been the case this season, the Raiders did just that.  Some tweaks, as well as a relentless effort, propelled NWF to a second half outburst.  Northwest Florida outscored TCC 46-25 in the game's final 20 minutes and seemed to find the impressive rhythm on both ends of the floor that they've displayed for most of the season.

Part of that great effort by NWF was reflected in the rebound margin.  The Raiders pounded the glass, outrebounding TCC 39-21 for the game.  Sophomores Deshawndre Washington and Issa Muhammad spearheaded the disparity by grabbing 11 and 8 rebounds, respectively. 

Offensively, the Raiders were led in scoring by Brennan Rigsby with 18 points on 7-13 shooting from the field. Washington scored 12 points while Muhammad and Kam Woods each added 11. 

The Raiders will take their act on the road on Saturday, January 29 when they travel to Pensacola State College.  Tip-off is scheduled for 4:00 p.m.

For more information on Northwest Florida State athletics, visit NWFRaiders.com or follow @NWFRaiders on Twitter.