AVE MARIA, Fla. – The Spring Arbor University men's basketball team wrapped up its time in Florida on Thursday evening with a matchup against No. 8 Ave Maria University, falling 96-82 to the nationally ranked Gyrenes.
 
The Cougars got off to a fast start, racing out to a 12–2 lead in the opening five minutes, but the early surge was not enough as Ave Maria settled in and fought back. The Gyrenes eventually built a 43–35 lead heading into halftime.
 
Ave Maria maintained a double-digit advantage throughout the second half, keeping control of the game and limiting Spring Arbor's chances to close the gap.
 
David Cundiff and Travis Grayson led Spring Arbor with 17 points apiece. Dante Favor added 14 points and six rebounds while Brandon Trilli finished with 12 points.
 
Spring Arbor (7-6) returns home to host Siena Heights University (4-7) on Tuesday, Dec. 30. Tipoff is set for 1 p.m.