Blazers Outshine Shockers in Quarterfinals: UAB's Tactical Triumph at Dickies Arena
72-60, a score that reflects the University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers' commanding performance over the Wichita State Shockers in the American Athletic - Quarterfinal 2. The Blazers' season record remains unblemished as they continue their pursuit of glory. The Shockers, despite a valiant effort, fell short and now reflect on their season tally.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers showcased a remarkable game at Dickies Arena, with both teams displaying an equal number of blocks and team rebounds. However, the Blazers excelled with five steals to the Shockers' three and edged out with 13 assists over 10 from their opponents. Both teams fought hard for every point in this intense quarterfinal matchup.
The Blazers demonstrated superior agility on fast breaks scoring 11 points against just three from the Shockers. Despite each team committing one flagrant foul during play, it was UAB's discipline that shone through as they committed fewer personal fouls (13) compared to Wichita State's 18.
UAB also capitalized on turnovers more effectively than Wichita State did; scoring 11 points off turnovers while limiting their own total turnovers to four compared to nine by the Shockers. This tactical advantage was further highlighted by UAB's impressive assist-to-turnover ratio of 3.25 against Wichita State's ratio of 1.43.
Offensively, both teams had similar shooting percentages from within the arc but UAB took advantage when it came to three-point shots making six out of eighteen attempts for a thirty-three percent completion rate whereas Wichita State managed only twenty-five percent from beyond the arc.
In terms of rebounding prowess, both teams grabbed forty rebounds each but it was UAB who made more use of theirs with thirteen second-chance points versus eleven by Wichita State and also dominated offensive boards grabbing thirteen rebounds over nine by their opponents.
As fans look forward to future games, they can mark their calendars for an exciting match-up where University of Alabama at Birmingham will face South Florida Bulls away at Dickies Arena on March 16th at 3:00 PM Eastern Time which will be broadcasted live on ESPN2 for all supporters eager to follow along.