Sophomore guard Nick Calathes has been struggling a bit the past few games, but he came out from his shell on Wednesday after scoring 19 to lead the Gators past Jacksonville in the first round of the NIT tournament.

Florida’s shooting was outstanding the first half. They could hardly miss from anywhere on the floor. The Gators shot 6-of-9 from beyond the arc in the first half and led by 21.

Ray Shipman’s breakaway dunk led to a 26 point Gator lead. I was really surprised to see Ray get up there. I have been waiting all year to see him throw down a slam.

Chandler Parsons finished with 13 points while freshman guard Erving Walker put up 11. Junior forward Dan Werner added 10 points. The Gators finished the game shooting 56 percent from the field.

The Gators advance to the second round to face Miami on Friday, tip off will be held at 7 pm in Gainesville.