Miami Dade Pulls Away Late to Defeat Florida Coastal Prep, 83–71

Miami Dade delivered a complete performance on both ends of the floor, pulling away in the second half to secure an 83–71 victory over Florida Coastal Prep.

The Sharks set the tone early, using ball movement and interior efficiency to build a 47–34 halftime lead. David Verstraeten anchored the offense from the opening tip, scoring efficiently around the rim while controlling the glass. Miami Dade shot 48.4 percent from the field in the first half and forced Florida Coastal Prep into tough possessions with active defense.

Florida Coastal Prep made a push after the break, trimming the deficit behind second-chance opportunities and perimeter shooting, but Miami Dade responded every time. Verstraeten continued to dominate in the paint, finishing with a game-high 33 points on 14-of-17 shooting while adding 10 rebounds and three blocks. His presence inside helped Miami Dade maintain control despite Coastal Prep's pressure.

Jayson Smith provided a big spark off the bench, scoring 13 points on 4-of-5 shooting, including three timely three-pointers that halted momentum swings. Leeroy Nijean chipped in 14 points and five rebounds, while Anthony Gilkes and Anthony Breland helped facilitate the offense as Miami Dade finished with 20 assists on 31 made field goals.

Defensively, the Sharks forced 20 turnovers and recorded five blocks, turning stops into transition opportunities down the stretch. Miami Dade also won the rebounding battle, 47–39, limiting Florida Coastal Prep's chances to fully close the gap late.

Miami Dade sealed the win at the free-throw line in the final minutes to move to 8-5 on the year.