WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Palm Beach Atlantic let an early lead disappear in an eventual 69-62 loss to the University of Tampa on Saturday afternoon inside Rubin Arena.

The Sailfish led throughout the first half until the final seconds as Karma Jeremie knocked down a jumper for Tampa at the free throw line before the final buzzer sounded before halftime. PBA had a 33-21 lead with just over three minutes left in the second quarter before the Spartans rallied.

PBA was able to keep things close in the third period, despite the Spartans leading throughout. The ‘Fish cut the deficit to one three different times but were never able to get over the hump. In the fourth the Spartans pushed the lead out to double digits before the ‘Fish cut it to five with 1:49 to play on a layup by Mina Salhia but the Spartans were able to make all four free throws down the stretch to seal the victory.

Hannah Grim led the ‘Fish with 17 points on 8-of-12 shooting and Salhia added 16 points with Ayanna Holmes scoring 15 but the ‘Fish shot just 3-of-13 from long range in the second half. PBA made 5-of-12 from distance in the first half thanks in large part to Salhia who made two of four triples on the day in the first half.

Holmes added eight rebounds to go along with her 15 points with Jane Svilberg pulling down seven boards and dishing out four assists. The ‘Fish shot 41 percent from the floor with Tampa shooting 52 percent overall. The Spartans made 12-of-14 at the free throw line while PBA made all four of their attempts.

The Sailfish will continue to play at home as part of their four game home stand, hosting Lynn University at 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 25.