Sarasota, Fla. - The New College of Florida Mighty Banyans women's basketball team dropped their first game of the New Year 73-51 against Florida National University. 

The Mighty Banyans (5-10) welcomed the Conquistadors to Hal Chasey Gymansium following a tough loss at The University of Fort Lauderdale on Wed. Jan 10. The Banyan's opened the game slow on the offensive end of the floor. FNU jumped out to an early lead following three consecutive Banyan turnovers. The Conquistadors offense was solid in the first quarter, converting on 9 of their 18 field goal attempts and jumping out to a 21-13 lead. 

Sierra Moore sparked got the New College offense back on track in the second frame. Moore connected on three shot attempts, as well as grabbed 4 rebounds and tallying 1 steal. The Banyan offense rallied around Moore, improving on their first quarter production, and winning the second frame of action 15-8. The Banyan's late surge took them into the half trailing Florida National 29-28. 

The third quarter was the turning point in the game for Florida National. The Conquistador offense caught fire, knocking down 57.9% of their shots and 4 of their 6 free throw attempts. FNU locked down the other end of the floor with stout defense, forcing multiple New College turnovers and holding the Banyans to 6 points. 

The Banyans regained their stride in the final period. The New College offense matched Florida National's output in the fourth quarter, scoring 17 points. The Banyan defense also showed signs of improvement, limiting the Conquistadors to 43% shooting, their second lowest total of the game. 

Late turnovers eliminated any chance of a Banyan comeback, ultimately leading to a 73-51 loss. 

Sierra Moore led all Banyan scores with 13 points on the evening. Moore also added to her statline with 8 rebounds and 3 steals. 

Jadyn Lattimore added in 8 points on 4-5 shooting from the field. 

The Mighty Banyans are back in action on Friday, Jan. 19, at 5:30 at Paine College.