Can the UAB Blazers' Precision at the Free-Throw Line Be Their Secret Weapon?
In a recent face-off, the University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers emerged victorious with an 84-75 score over the Mustangs. The Blazers now stand with an unblemished record, while their opponents left with more losses than wins.
The game held at Bartow Arena in Birmingham was a showcase of offensive efficiency and free-throw accuracy by the home team. The UAB Blazers were particularly lethal from the charity stripe, converting 93 percent of their attempts into points. This exceptional performance from the free-throw line was pivotal in securing their win against a determined Mustangs squad.
The Mustangs put up a strong fight, especially during the third quarter where they outscored their hosts by six points. They demonstrated resilience and offensive power by scoring 46 points in paint and making 51 percent of their two-point attempts. However, they struggled beyond the arc with only 25 percent shooting accuracy on three-pointers.
On defense, both teams had contrasting nights; while SMU failed to register any blocks throughout the game, UAB managed to tally two blocks contributing to their defensive efforts. Additionally, both teams had similar turnover numbers but it was UAB who capitalized more effectively on these opportunities scoring 18 points off turnovers compared to SMU's 11.
The Blazers also showed superiority in fast-break situations outscoring SMU by nine points in this aspect which kept them ahead for most of the game despite there being three ties and two lead changes throughout.
A standout player for UAB was undoubtedly instrumental not just for her scoring but also her overall contribution across various facets of play including assists and rebounds which helped maintain her team's momentum during critical phases of play.
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate another exciting match as The University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers are set to host UTSA Roadrunners at Bartow Arena on January 21st at 1:00 PM local time (2:00 PM EST). Supporters unable to attend can catch live coverage from Birmingham ensuring they don't miss any action from what promises to be an engaging contest between these conference rivals.