BABSON PARK, Fla. (Dec. 12, 2024) — Sophomore Caelum Ethridge dropped a game-high 28 points in Florida National’s (1-9) third consecutive loss Thursday. The phenom’s heroics were not enough to combat a 65-60 loss to the Webber International University Warriors (3-7) on the road.
FNU entered the Sabbagh Athletic Center looking to shake off an 11-point loss to New College of Florida on Dec. 4 and in search of its first win against the Warriors since the 2015-16 season. WIU, however, was able to hand the Conquistadors its fifth straight defeat, improving to 7-4 all-time against Florida National.
In the first half, FNU found itself in the middle of another close battle on the hardwood. The visitors led 32-28, and Ethridge ended his opening half campaign with 14 points, two rebounds and an assist to lead all scorers. Despite missing all three long-range shots, Jeremy Arnum found his rhythm from inside the three-point line for six crucial points in the frame.
WIU was able to keep things within reach thanks to Montreal McCullough and Orlando Thomas combining for 15 points. Webber also controlled the glass, winning the rebounding race 23-18. When the second period commenced, a strong layup from Thomas gave WIU its first lead of the half with 17:20 left on the clock. Webber added to its advantage with an 8-0 run in the next three minutes before two made free throws from Ethridge ended FNU’s scoring drought.
Ethridge and guard Gary Adams carried much of the load through the middle portion of the half but WIU held a 59-49 lead thanks to a three from Khalyl Simmons with 5:28 on the clock. FNU showed some girt down the stretch and a clutch three from Ethridge with 72 seconds remaining made it a 63-60 Webber lead.
Unfortunately, FNU ran out of time and two free throws from Thomas after a foul by Arnum was just enough to grant Webber the win. Adams ended the night with a near double-double of nine points and 10 rebounds and Arnum closed out the evening with 10 points.
Up Next: FNU’s final game of the calendar year is set for tomorrow on the road against Warner University at 6 p.m.
