Can the Rice Owls Maintain Momentum After Clinching Victory at UTSA Convocation Center?
The Rice Owls emerged victorious in a closely contested battle against the UTSA Roadrunners with a final score of 80-76. The Owls' season record now stands at an impressive 18-5, while the Roadrunners hold a less favorable tally of 12-11.
In what was a true display of resilience and skill, the Rice Owls secured their latest win on the road at the UTSA Convocation Center. The game saw both teams locked in an intense struggle for dominance, with lead changes occurring five times and scores tied thrice throughout the contest. The first half ended with Rice holding a slight edge over UTSA, scoring 39 points to their opponent's 28.
The second half intensified as both teams returned to the court with renewed vigor. The Roadrunners put up an impressive fight, outscoring their opponents by seven points in fast break situations and edging them out on total rebounds by securing 36 compared to Rice's 34. However, it was not enough to overcome the solid performance displayed by the visiting team.
Rice's offensive efforts were led by sharpshooting from beyond the arc; they converted twelve three-pointers at a commendable rate of forty-one percent accuracy. Their prowess from two-point range also shone through as they made sixteen baskets from thirty attempts, translating into fifty-three percent shooting efficiency.
Defensively, Rice managed to block five shots and steal possession three times during playtime. They also capitalized on turnovers effectively, adding nine points off turnovers to their tally. Despite committing nineteen personal fouls over UTSA's sixteen, this did not significantly hinder their performance or outcome.
Key contributors for Rice included players who combined for fourteen assists and those who contributed defensively with twenty-one defensive rebounds—helping maintain control despite aggressive plays from UTSA’s side which resulted in thirty-six points scored inside paint against them.
Looking ahead after this hard-fought victory on foreign ground against conference rivals, fans can anticipate another exciting matchup when Rice returns home to face SMU Mustangs at Tudor Fieldhouse in Houston on February 7th at 7:00 PM local time (Central Time). This upcoming game will be available for viewing via ESPN+ internet broadcast network for enthusiasts unable to attend in person.