In a historic victory, the North Florida Ospreys claimed their first-ever win over an SEC opponent with a 74-71 triumph against the South Carolina Gamecocks in Columbia, SC. This landmark win, which also marks the Ospreys' first victory over a Power 4 program since 2015, was sealed by a clutch performance from sophomore Jasai Miles, who hit a decisive three-pointer with just 1:23 left on the clock.

A Thrilling Second-Half Comeback

The Gamecocks led 36-31 at halftime and maintained a lead for much of the second half, but North Florida displayed incredible resilience. Down by five after the final media timeout, the Ospreys outscored South Carolina 15-7 over the last four minutes, showcasing their determination and tactical discipline. The game was tied at 67 when Jasai Miles, with the confidence of a seasoned veteran, nailed a step-back three-pointer over Jacobi Wright, giving the Ospreys a 67-66 lead they would not relinquish.

The Ospreys continued their aggressive play, with Jaylen Smith converting a layup to make it 69-66 with 42 seconds remaining. Although the Gamecocks pulled close with free throws, North Florida’s Nate Lliteras responded with two crucial free throws, and Smith sealed the deal with a three-point play that extended the lead to 74-69, securing the Ospreys’ victory.

Standout Performances and Key Stats

North Florida’s balanced scoring attack proved essential in this win, with four players reaching double figures. Jaylen Smith led the team with 16 points, including several clutch plays in the final minute. Liam Murphy added 14 points, while Nate Lliteras contributed 13, hitting key free throws down the stretch. Jasai Miles, whose late three-pointer gave the Ospreys their initial lead in the closing minutes, finished with 11 points and nine rebounds, establishing himself as a player to watch in the ASUN Conference and potentially beyond.

The Ospreys' bench also played a pivotal role, contributing 30 points. North Florida shot 42 percent from the field, though they struggled from beyond the arc (missing 19 of their 29 attempts) and at the free-throw line (going 6-for-13). Despite these setbacks, their defensive hustle and timely shooting allowed them to capitalize on South Carolina’s miscues and secure the win.

Box Score Highlights:

• UNF Ospreys:

  • Jaylen Smith: 16 points
  • Liam Murphy: 14 points
  • Nate Lliteras: 13 points, 2 clutch free throws
  • Jasai Miles: 11 points, 9 rebounds, go-ahead 3-pointer

• South Carolina Gamecocks:

  • Collin Murray-Boyles: 17 points, 7-of-16 shooting
  • Zachary Davis: 12 points
  • Jamarii Thomas: 12 points
  • Jacobi Wright: 12 points

Key Takeaways and Impact on the Ospreys' Season

This win is monumental for North Florida, who was ranked seventh in the Atlantic Sun (ASUN) preseason poll. Coming into the game as a heavy underdog, the Ospreys displayed a level of composure and resilience that could shift the trajectory of their season. By defeating an SEC team on the road, North Florida has proven they can compete with high-level programs, a promising sign as they gear up for conference play.

This victory not only boosts team morale but also puts UNF on the radar as a potential dark horse in the ASUN Conference. It demonstrates their capability to handle pressure and deliver in high-stakes situations, qualities that could make them contenders in the ASUN tournament. With a mix of experienced players like Smith and rising stars like Miles, the Ospreys have a balanced lineup that can compete on both ends of the court.

Jasai Miles’ Rising Draft Stock

Sophomore Jasai Miles continues to impress, and this performance against South Carolina may have marked a pivotal moment in his career. Known for his shooting range and defensive tenacity, Miles showcased his poise in clutch moments, hitting the go-ahead three-pointer and pulling down nine rebounds. His rising draft stock could garner attention from scouts, especially if he maintains his upward trajectory throughout the season. For athletes like Miles, platforms such as RecruitingExposure offer a way to connect with scouts and showcase his journey.

Upcoming Challenges and Opportunities

With this win under their belt, the Ospreys will return to UNF Arena for their next game against Coastal Georgia on November 6. This matchup offers an opportunity to solidify their momentum and continue refining their strategy before diving into a challenging ASUN schedule. Key games against conference rivals will test the team’s endurance and consistency, but with this confidence-boosting victory, UNF is poised to tackle upcoming challenges.

North Florida’s schedule will only become more challenging as they encounter teams with similar aspirations. Still, their demonstrated resilience and ability to make clutch plays suggest they’re well-equipped to compete at a high level. The Ospreys’ ability to close out games against tougher competition will be critical in their pursuit of an ASUN title and potential NCAA tournament berth.

A Historic Moment for North Florida

With this monumental win behind them, the Ospreys are now setting their sights on their home opener against Charleston Southern next Thursday. This game will be a chance for North Florida to bring the momentum of their historic victory back to their home crowd at UNF Arena. Fans are eager to see if the team can build on this success and maintain the energy and execution that secured their win over South Carolina. The matchup against Charleston Southern will serve as a key test in establishing consistency as the Ospreys look to build a strong season.