AVE MARIA, Fla. --- The Ave Maria men's basketball gave conference leading Florida Memorial a test on Thursday evening before fading in the second half. The loss puts the Gyrenes at 3-5 in Sun Conference play while FMU moves to 8-0 against league teams.
 
AMU turned in a strong first half of play with stifling defensive pressure, holding the Lions to 33 points. The Gyrenes shot nearly 50% from the field during the first half and went into the locker room with a 39-33 lead.
 
In the second half, Florida Memorial came storming back going 19-for-38 from the floor, taking control of the scoring. Charlie Nedd-Araujio led the wat for the Lions with 24 points. Aaron Bryant and Jaelyn Johnson-Coston also had strong nights, adding 17 and 15 points, respectively.
 
Deonte Dixon led the way for AMU, netting 23 on the night. Exor Torres added nine points with two steals, two assists, and no turnovers. Josh Flowers made his presences felt as well, scoring 12 points off the bench.
 
The Gyrenes will be back in action this Saturday afternoon as they host Thomas University in another Sun Conference matchup. The game will be part of a men's and women's basketball double header, beginning with the Lady Gyrenes at 2 p.m. before the men's game tips at 4 p.m.