Matt Stamey/staff photographer
JACKSONVILLE --- There was reason for concern in the opening 20 minutes of Florida’s eventual 91-63 exhibition win against Eckerd College at Veterans Memorial Arena.
Due to 10 first-half turnovers, some defensive breakdowns in the halfcourt and cold shooting stretches, the Gators trailed Eckerd 34-33 at halftime Wednesday.
A second-half surge was needed. Florida delivered by attacking the basket more and ramping up its defensive intensity. The Gators held Eckerd to 33.3 percent from the floor in the second half.
“We finally matched their energy and intensity level and there shouldn’t be any excuse for that,” Florida coach Mike White said.