Sharks Grind Out Jim Cox Classic Finale Victory

Jorge Fernandez's squad wrapped up the Jim Cox Classic with a hard-fought victory on Sunday evening, outlasting Central Georgia Tech 77–70 behind clutch shooting and late defensive stops at the Gibson Center.

With the score tied 36–36 at halftime, the Sharks flipped the script in the second half, digging in on defense while finding timely offense to secure back-to-back wins on the weekend.

Ernesto Rodriguez once again set the tone, pouring in a game-high 23 points on five made threes and a perfect 6-for-6 stretch at the foul line in crunch time. The sophomore guard also dished out five assists and grabbed a pair of rebounds as the Sharks' offense leaned on his shot-making late.

Forward Leeroy Nijean delivered a massive performance in the paint, notching a 12-point, 10-rebound double-double while tallying four steals and two blocks. His activity on the glass proved crucial, especially in the final minutes, when multiple second-chance opportunities stalled the Titans' comeback push.

Anthony Breland added 10 points, with several key drives in the second half that helped Miami Dade push ahead. Juvon Gamory and Jacopo Van Der Knapp provided valuable bench production, combining for 13 points including two momentum-swinging triples from Van Der Knapp.

The Sharks' collective toughness at the line made the difference with Miami Dade finishing 23-for-30 from the stripe, outscoring CGTC by seven at the line while committing just nine turnovers.

Central Georgia Tech wouldn't go away quietly. Roosevelt Brown led the Titans with 18 points and six assists, while Kaziaes Hemphill dominated the interior with 17 points, 11 boards, and five blocks. But MDC's defense tightened when it mattered most, holding the visitors to just one field goal over a late three-minute span while extending the lead to double digits behind another Rodriguez dagger from deep.

With the win, Miami Dade caps the Jim Cox Classic with three victories to move to 6-2

Up next, the Sharks return to action at home later this week as they continue their non-conference slate hosting Palm Beach State on Wednesday, December 3rd. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM.