Even though the University Cougars have not done well against the Lake Nona Lions recently (they were 2-7 in their previous nine matchups), they didn't let the past get in their way on Thursday. University had just enough and edged Lake Nona out 48-45. That's two games straight that University has won by exactly three points.
University's victory was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Laura Martinez, who scored 14 points. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Martinez has scored all season. The team also got some help courtesy of Jacqueline Leap, who scored 12 points.
Despite the defeat, Lake Nona saw an underclassman step up: Hazel Gonzalez scored 15 points. That's the first time this season that Gonzalez scored 15 or more points. Nadeen Elgamal was another key contributor, scoring nine points.
The win makes it two in a row for University and bumps their season record up to 6-11. As for Lake Nona, they are on a seven-game losing streak that has dropped them down to 2-12.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. University will take on Lake Buena Vista at 7:30 p.m. on Monday. Lake Buena Vista is no doubt hoping to put an end to a six-game streak of away losses. As for Lake Nona, they will be playing at home against Freedom at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.
