HIALEAH, Fla. — The Gyrenes eight-game win streak, which was tied for the longest streak to start a season for AMU, unfortunately came to an end Wednesday at the hands of Florida National. The Conquistadors won 88-78.

The main reason for the loss was the Gyrenes had their worst night from the floor, shooting below 40% for the first time this season. The Gyrenes also had their worst night from behind the arc so far, shooting 7-for-25 from downtown.

Ave Maria took a six-point lead into halftime thanks to FNU also having a trouble from the floor, but the Conquistadors got their act right in the second half, making 62% of their shoots and blowing past the Gyrenes. Florida National grabbed the lead with just under 10 minutes left to play and never let it go for the rest of the game.

Nick Filchner and Noryen Lasley tied for the team lead in points with 14 each. Filchner was also the only Gyrene to hit multiple threes, making three of the team's seven. Jaylen White joined them in the double figures club with 10 of his own.

The loss spoils a great day as the Gyrenes were ranked for the first time this season, clocking in at number 17 in the second NAIA Top 25 poll. It is the first time since 2019 when Ave Maria was ranked #11 in the Division 2 poll.

The Gyrenes finally come home for their next game after playing eight of nine on the road and at neutral sites. They will take on the Florida College Falcons, who dropped from #25 to receiving votes in Wednesday's poll, Friday night. The Gyrenes have already beaten the Falcons once this season, defeating them in their own gym on November 9. Ave Maria will look to sweep the season series. Tip-off is set for 7:30 and the game will be streamed on the Sun Digital Network.