Clash of Determination: Temple Owls Set to Host UAB Blazers at Liacouras Center
As the Temple Owls prepare to host the UAB Blazers at the Liacouras Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a riveting encounter. The Owls have been on a rollercoaster ride this season, but their recent performances suggest they're hitting their stride at just the right time.
In their last outing against Wichita State Shockers on February 25th, TEM showed remarkable resilience. Despite trailing in the first half, they clawed back into the game and forced it into overtime, eventually triumphing with 72 points over WICH's 66. This victory was not just about scoring; it was a testament to TEM's tenacity on defense and ability to capitalize on turnovers.
The statistics from that game paint a picture of a team that knows how to control the boards – pulling down an impressive 52 rebounds – and one that can turn defense into offense quickly with 16 fast break points. However, there were areas of concern too; shooting only 32 percent from field goals and 24 percent from beyond the arc won't cut it against top-tier opposition.
Against UTSA Roadrunners on February 18th at home, TEM showcased their offensive prowess by putting up an impressive tally of 83 points. Their shooting improved dramatically as they hit nearly half of their field goal attempts (45 percent) and were lethal from downtown with a three-point percentage of 38. This kind of shooting efficiency combined with their ability to distribute (15 assists) could spell trouble for any opponent.
However, when TEM faced off against Florida Atlantic Owls in Boca Raton earlier in February, despite scoring consistently across both halves for a total of 68 points, they fell short by twelve points against FAU's sharpshooting which clocked in at an astounding rate of nearly fifty percent from both field goals and three-point range.
Looking ahead to March 7th's matchup against UAB Blazers – who will be stepping onto TEM territory – one thing is clear: if Temple wants to come out victorious once more before its passionate Philadelphia crowd, those shooting percentages need another uptick. The Blazers will come prepared; thus defensive pressure leading to turnovers could again play a pivotal role for TEM as it did during past games.
The upcoming battle is set for March 7th at Liacouras Center starting at seven o'clock in the evening Eastern Time. Fans eager not to miss any action should tune into ESPN2 where every pass, shot and defensive stop will be broadcast live as these two teams go head-to-head in what promises to be another thrilling chapter in college basketball this season.