FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason University (4-1, 0-0 Atlantic 10) defeated Florida Gulf Coast University (1-2, 0-0 ASUN), 58-41, at EagleBank Arena, capitalizing on 25 points off turnovers to secure the win. The Patriots recorded 15 steals and held the Eagles to just 5 points in the third quarter.
George Mason opened the first quarter with a strong start, as
Zahirah Walton and
Louis Volker contributed with early layups, establishing a quick lead. The team's defensive pressure was evident with Walton securing two steals and a block from
Kennedy Harris, which helped in converting turnovers into points.
In the closing moments, Walton's steal and fast-break layup with just four seconds left secured an 18–15 advantage at the end of the first quarter. The Patriots' focus on paint points, totaling 14, played a crucial role in setting the tone for the game.
George Mason gained momentum early in the second quarter with a series of successful plays in the paint, highlighted by Volker's layup at 7:54, pushing the score to 24–19.
Mary Amoateng's subsequent layup and free throw extended the lead to 31–24. Despite FGCU's attempts to close the gap with a couple of three-pointers, the Patriots maintained control with strategic defense, including two blocks by Volker. The quarter concluded with George Mason leading 31–27, reflecting their effective scoring and defensive efforts.
George Mason surged ahead in the third quarter, capitalizing on turnovers and free throws to extend their lead. Johnson knocked down a key jumper at 7:57, assisted by Volker, putting the Patriots ahead 33–31. Volker later added two free throws, pushing the lead to 35–31. George Mason's defense forced multiple turnovers, allowing them to outscore FGCU 11-5 in the quarter. The home team held a 42–32 advantage at the end of the quarter.
The Green & Gold displayed a strong performance in the fourth quarter, maintaining their lead with key contributions from Walton, who opened the quarter with a pair of free throws and later added a jumper and a fast-break layup. The team capitalized on turnovers, with
Page Greenburg and Amoateng contributing steals that led to points. Defensive efforts, including two blocks from Walton, helped limit FGCU's scoring opportunities, allowing only three field goals in the quarter. The game concluded with George Mason securing a decisive 58-41 victory.
PATRIOT POINTS
UP NEXT
The Patriots will head to Maryland to take on the Terps on Sunday, November 23 at 2:30 p.m. The game will be televised on the Big Ten Network.
