JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Nov. 2, 2024) — Florida National's (1-1) dynamic guard combo of Janelisse Marty Marrero and Jullie Ruiz Paneto combined for 48 points in a 79-66 victory over the Trinity Baptist College Eagles (0-1) Saturday. FNU shot 47% from the field and won the rebounding battle by 17.

In the first quarter, ten from Ruiz Paneto pushed FNU ahead 24-9. TBC grabbed nine defensive rebounds despite FNU shooting 52% in the period. Hermione Hicks was a big help for FNU off the bench with a perfect 2-2 performance from the field. Everyone contributed in one way or another, as guard Kaylee Llanos went 0-3 in the quarter but claimed three rebounds.

TBC's offense did pick up significantly as the Eagles posted 17 points before halftime. Victoria Broadway and Laila Harvey had four points each, while Ranajala Brown had six to keep the Eagles in business. FNU thrived on another ten-point quarter by Ruiz Paneto, and Marty Marrero impressed with 75% shooting and her team up by 17.

TBC's Reniyah Clark was a force in the third quarter, posting 11 points and connecting on all three of her long-range shots. Despite Clark's lively offensive performance, FNU continued to be efficient. They converted 50% of their shots and had all five starters in the quarter score at least once. 

The Eagles outscored FNU in the fourth 19-16 but could not do enough to completely shut down the Conquistadors' production from different parts of the court. FNU closed out the game shooting just 2-19 from three-point land and 7-22 from the free-throw line. Ruiz Paneto lead all scorers with 26 and posted a double-double with 10 boards. She was followed closely by Marty Marrero with 22 points and Jaycee Omeir recorded seven points and team-high 15 rebounds. 

The Conquistadors are now 5-0 against TBC in as many contests and have improved its overall program record when facing the Eagles to 7-1.

Up Next: Florida National has an exhibition on the road against the NCAA DI FIU Panthers on Nov 4 at 6 p.m.