DAYTONA BEACH — Polk State Basketball's first matchup against junior college competition featured an epic comeback. Down by as many as 18 points on Friday, the Eagles opened the Daytona State College Shootout with a thrilling 100-92 victory over Motlow State Community College.

Polk State (3-0) trailed 52-34 in the first half and 53-37 at halftime. The Eagles outscored the Bucks 63-39 in the second half.

After cutting the deficit to 65-54, Polk State went ahead for good with a 14-0 run. A breakaway layup by Terell James put Polk State ahead for good with less than 12 minutes remaining.

The Bucks stayed within striking, but Polk State came up clutch down the stretch. Up 94-92 with 30 seconds left, Ethan Simon came through with a clutch basket to make it a two-possession game. Jaylon Brown followed with four straight free throws to put the game away.

Eric Dailey filled up the box score with 30 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and three steals in the win. Simon and Nicolas Logan each added 16 points. Simon shot 6-for-7 from the field and grabbed 10 rebounds. 

James added 10 points off the bench. Brown finished with nine points and a team-high eight assists. Tyson Pittman led Motlow State with 28 points.

Polk State will look to cap a perfect trip to Daytona Beach and stay undefeated on the season on Saturday when it plays Wake Technical Community College. Tip time is scheduled for 2 p.m.