FLORENCE, Ala.  – The University of West Florida men's basketball team defeated the University of North Alabama 79-77 Saturday afternoon to earn their first Gulf South Conference win of the season. The Argonauts improve their record to 5-3 overall and 1-1 in the GSC.

"To be honest, we didn't play very well," said head coach Bob Stinnett. "But we found a way to win, which is extremely encouraging. I'm proud of my guys because they never quit and they never gave up."

In the first half, the Argos out shot their opponent 38 percent to 30 percent but entered halftime with a three point, 32-35, deficit against the Lions. UWF was led by senior Demetrius Moore (Paxton, Fla./Indiana State University) in the half who scored 11 points and grabbed seven rebounds in just 12 minutes.

Despite the three point first half deficit, West Florida picked up their first GSC victory after they outscored the Lions 45-42 in the second half and overtime periods. The Argos recorded a season high 50 rebounds in the win and dominated possession in the game by committing only nine turnovers, their lowest mark of the season.

West Florida was led by senior Terrence Townes (Danville, Va./Gulf Coast State) who tied a career high with 30 points. Moore recorded his fifth double-double of the season after he scored 20 points and grabbed 14 rebounds. Junior Lendward Griffin(Jacksonville, Fla./ Ribault HS) also tallied a double-double after he scored 11 points and totaled 11 rebounds. 

The Argos will return home next weekend when they host Shorter University Dec. 11 and Lee University Dec. 13.

For information on all UWF athletics, visit www.GoArgos.com.