Mustangs Battle Hard but Blazers Secure Victory at Bartow Arena
The Southern Methodist University Mustangs faced a challenging contest against the University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers, culminating in a 75-84 defeat. The Mustangs' season record now stands at 0-1, while the Blazers have started their campaign with a victory.
From the outset, the Mustangs demonstrated tenacity on offense with a notable performance in points scored within the paint, totaling 46. Their shooting accuracy from two-point range was impressive at 51 percent, converting 26 out of 51 attempts. However, their three-point efforts fell short with only a 25 percent success rate.
The team's free throw proficiency was commendable as they achieved a high conversion rate of 78 percent from the line. The Mustangs also showcased their ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities by scoring 12 points following offensive rebounds.
Defensively, SMU had its moments but ultimately could not contain UAB's fast-paced game which resulted in them conceding 17 fast break points. Despite this challenge, SMU managed to secure more total rebounds than UAB with an aggregate of 35 compared to UAB's total rebound count of 33.
The Mustangs' ball distribution was effective throughout the game as evidenced by their tally of assists which stood at an impressive count of fifteen for the duration of play. This facilitated movement and opportunities on offense but was slightly overshadowed by twelve turnovers that led to eleven points for UAB off those lost possessions.
On an individual level, SMU players showed resilience and determination; however, personal fouls became an area for concern as they accumulated twenty-five over four quarters which contributed to giving away free throw opportunities that UAB capitalized on with exceptional accuracy.
As for UAB's performance metrics during this encounter: they were able to maintain strong defensive pressure resulting in two blocks and three steals while committing fewer personal fouls than SMU at nineteen. Their field goal percentage stood close behind SMU’s at forty-four percent overall and surpassed them significantly from beyond the arc where they shot forty-two percent from three-point range.
Looking ahead after this hard-fought battle on foreign hardwood floors; fans can anticipate seeing how Southern Methodist University will regroup when they host North Texas Mean Green next week. The upcoming match is scheduled for January seventeenth at seven o'clock PM Central Time Zone within Moody Coliseum located in Dallas Texas ZIP code seven five two zero five USA State TX City Dallas Country USA Address Moody Coliseum City Dallas Country USA State TX Zip seven five two zero five Venue Name Moody Coliseum City Dallas Country USA State TX Zip seven five two zero five Fans eager to support can tune into future broadcasts or attend live if possible as these athletes continue their pursuit towards victory.