Allen bounces back, Florida tops Charleston Southern 76-46

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) KeVaughn Allen bounced back from a scoreless season opener with 14 points, leading Florida to a 76-46 victory over Charleston Southern in the team's home opener Friday night.

Allen scored 11 of the team's first 28 points and hit a 3-pointer to start the second half. The senior made 6 of 11 shots, including 2 of 6 from 3-point range, and added a career-high five steals.

His performance was just what the Gators (1-1) needed after a lopsided loss at Florida State three days earlier. The 17th-ranked Seminoles beat the Gators in every facet of the game, winning 81-60 and it could have been worse.

Allen was scoreless for the first time in 85 games, dating to his freshman season.

Coach Mike White said Thursday that Allen ''can't be zoned in on scoring'' against the Buccaneers (1-1).

''He's got to be zoned in on being a senior leader, a really good player and scoring will happen,'' White added.

Allen scored Florida's first three baskets and then picked up a steal and an assist on a behind-the-back pass to Deaundrae Ballard.

Ballard finished with 12 points for Florida. Point guard Andrew Nembhard added seven points, seven rebounds, six assists, two steals and one turnover in his home debut. Fellow freshman Noah Locke chipped in eight points, and Jalen Hudson had 10.

Christian Keeling led Charleston Southern with 18 points on 5-of-17 shooting. Dontrelle Shuler added 11.

BIG PICTURE

Charleston Southern: The Buccaneers played their first of three road games against Power 5 teams. They still have Marquette and Clemson remaining, payday games that help fund the program.

Florida: The Gators needed a feel-good victory after a 21-point loss at rival Florida State earlier in the week. Still, they have to be more consistent to have success with one of the naiton's toughest non-conference schedules.

UP NEXT

Charleston Southern hosts South Carolina State on Tuesday.

Florida hosts La Salle next Wednesday.

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