JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Stetson (10-20, 6-11 ASUN) dropped a hard-fought 89-85 decision to Jacksonville (11-19, 6-11 ASUN) on Thursday night at Swisher Gymnasium.

Stetson established an early rhythm offensively, attacking the basket and generating balanced scoring. Finley Sheridan and Collin Kuhl set the tone in the opening minutes, combining for key buckets to keep the contest tight. Kuhl delivered one of the most efficient performances of his career, finishing with a career-high 31 points on 12-of-16 shooting while consistently finishing through contact.

Despite the Hatters' success inside, Jacksonville found momentum from the perimeter and on second-chance opportunities, allowing the Dolphins to build a 42-34 advantage at halftime.

Out of the break, Stetson responded with urgency and confidence. The Hatters increased their tempo, capitalizing in transition and continuing to pound the paint. Kuhl remained dominant, stringing together layups and free throws as Stetson chipped away at the deficit. Jake Johnson added timely three-point shooting, and the Hatters' defensive intensity fueled a late push.

Stetson outscored Jacksonville 51-47 in the second half and placed five players in double figures, showcasing its offensive balance. In the closing seconds, Kuhl punctuated his standout night with an emphatic dunk with two seconds remaining, bringing the Hatters within four. However, the late rally fell just short as Jacksonville held on for the 89-85 decision.

Stetson Top Performers

• Collin Kuhl — 31 points (career high), 12-of-16 FG, 7-of-13 FT, 5 rebounds
• Jake Johnson — 17 points, 5-of-10 FG, 3-of-7 3PT
• Finley Sheridan — 12 points, 5-of-6 FG, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks
• Ethan Copeland — 11 points, 3-of-7 3PT, 4 rebounds
• Calvin Sirmans III — 10 points, 4-of-4 FT, 4 assists

Stetson returns home to host FGCU for Senior Day and the regular season finale on Saturday, Feb. 28. Tipoff is set for 2 p.m. at Insight Credit Union Arena at the Edmunds Center in DeLand.

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About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.