Blazers Edge Past Bulls in a Nail-Biting Conference Showdown

The University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers secured a hard-fought victory over the South Florida Bulls with a final score of 75-71. The Blazers' season record now stands at an impressive 17-5, while the Bulls fall to a more modest 11-11. In what was an intense conference game, both teams displayed remarkable resilience, but it was the Blazers who emerged victorious on their home court.

The game was held at Bartow Arena in Birmingham, where fans witnessed an intense battle characterized by frequent lead changes and ties. The two teams were neck and neck throughout the match, with the lead changing hands 12 times and scores tied on 10 occasions. It was clear from tip-off that neither team would give up without a fight.

For the UAB Blazers, free throws proved crucial as they made good on 73 percent of their attempts from the line, totaling 30 points from free throws alone. This accuracy provided them with a much-needed edge over the Bulls whose free throw percentage stood at just 47 percent. Moreover, UAB's ability to capitalize on turnovers was evident as they scored 11 points off turnovers compared to South Florida's eight.

On defense, UAB managed three blocks and five steals which contributed to their overall solid performance. Their defensive efforts were complemented by strong rebounding; they outrebounded South Florida by four rebounds with a total of 41 rebounds - seven offensive and an impressive defensive tally of thirty-three.

Offensively for UAB, points in paint were key – scoring twenty-eight compared to South Florida's twenty-four – showcasing their ability to penetrate defenses effectively. Although shooting only forty percent from field goal range and thirty-one percent from beyond the arc might seem modest, these figures were enough when combined with their other statistical advantages.

South Florida put up quite a resistance themselves; they shot fifty-three percent for two-pointers and had ten three-pointers made during the game. Their defense racked up seven blocks against UAB’s attempts inside but ultimately fell short despite this aggressive interior presence.

As we look ahead for The University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers’ next challenge will be against Florida Atlantic Owls at FAU Arena in Boca Raton on January 14th scheduled for noon Eastern Time (ET). Fans can catch all action live via ESPN+ internet broadcast network as The Blazers aim to continue their winning ways into mid-January.