Can UAB's Overtime Surge Eclipse Shockers' Home Court Advantage?
The University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers edged out a nail-biting victory against the Wichita State Shockers with an 83-81 scoreline. The Blazers, who have been striving to climb the ranks this season, showcased their determination in a game that saw both teams locked in a fierce battle. The Shockers fought valiantly on their home turf at Charles Koch Arena but ultimately fell short by two points.
From the opening quarter, it was clear that fans were in for an intense matchup. The Blazers started off trailing with 12 points to the Shockers' 15 but managed to close the gap and eventually take the lead. By halftime, both teams had added significantly to their tallies with UAB scoring 15 additional points and Wichita State putting up another 12. As they entered into the second half of play, UAB began to find their rhythm.
The third quarter proved pivotal for UAB as they amassed an impressive 23 points while holding Wichita State to just under at 24 points. This offensive surge was complemented by staunch defensive efforts; UAB recorded four blocks and matched that number in steals throughout the game. Their tenacity on defense translated into successful offense as they capitalized on turnovers, scoring 17 points off Wichita State's mistakes.
UAB's performance inside was notable with a total of 34 points scored in paint compared to Wichita State's dominant display resulting in 44 paint points. However, it was from beyond the arc where UAB found enough leverage; sinking ten three-point shots at a rate of twenty-nine percent helped keep them within striking distance throughout regulation time.
As both teams battled through four quarters and into overtime, it became evident that every possession would count. In those crucial extra minutes, UAB outscored Wichita State by two—11 versus nine—sealing their hard-fought victory.
The Blazers also excelled from the free-throw line where accuracy proved essential; converting nineteen free throws from twenty-four attempts gave them a seventy-nine percent success rate which contributed significantly to their overall score tally.
Rebounding played a critical role for both sides during this contest as well – while Wichita State pulled down more boards overall (55), including fourteen offensive rebounds which led them to earn twenty-one second chance points – it was not enough against an efficient Blazer team who grabbed forty-three rebounds themselves including eight offensive ones leading them towards nine second chance scores.
Looking ahead after this gripping encounter between conference rivals, fans can anticipate another exciting game when The University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers travel next week Sunday January 28th at noon CST facing North Texas Mean Green at UNT Coliseum located in Denton TX zip code:76201 USA . Fans eager not miss any action can tune into broadcast coverage provided for this upcoming event.