The Tennessee at Chattanooga Mocs pulled off a stunning upset at McKenzie Arena, taking down the Samford Bulldogs 88-79. This victory is a significant boost for Chattanooga, considering Samford's slightly better record and net ranking. The Mocs, now 9-12, were not expected to come out on top, making this win all the more impressive.
Chattanooga dominated the first half, ending with a 49-28 lead. Jordan Frison was instrumental in the Mocs' strong start, scoring 16 points and dishing out 6 assists throughout the game. Jikari Johnson and Teddy Washington Jr. also made significant contributions, scoring 15 and 12 points, respectively. The Mocs' offense was clicking, and their defense held Samford to a mere 28 points in the first half.
However, Samford refused to back down. Led by Dylan Faulkner's 24 points and 5 rebounds, the Bulldogs mounted a fierce comeback in the second half. Faulkner was joined by Jadin Booth, who scored 23 points and grabbed 6 rebounds, and Isaiah Campbell-Finch, who added 16 points. Despite their best efforts, Samford was unable to overcome the deficit, ultimately falling short by 9 points.
The significance of this upset cannot be overstated. Chattanooga, ranked 281 in the net rankings, took down a Samford team ranked 266. This win is a reflection of the Mocs' resilience and determination. While they may not be the most highly ranked team, they are capable of pulling off big upsets when it matters.
With no pre-game prediction available, this outcome is a surprise to many. However, Chattanooga's performance demonstrates that they should not be underestimated. The Mocs' ability to hold off Samford's second-half surge and secure the win is a notable achievement.
This game has real consequences for both teams' tournament chances. For Chattanooga, this Q4 win is a valuable addition to their resume, showcasing their ability to compete against tougher opponents. While it may not be enough to catapult them into the top tiers, it certainly helps their case. On the other hand, Samford's Q4 loss is a setback, but not a devastating blow. The Bulldogs must regroup and focus on their upcoming games to strengthen their tournament prospects.
In the end, Chattanooga's upset victory over Samford is a remarkable achievement that highlights the Mocs' potential. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how this win impacts their momentum and confidence. For now, the Mocs can bask in the glory of their surprise victory, knowing that they have the talent and determination to take on tougher opponents and come out on top. This win will undoubtedly be a crucial part of their tournament resume, and they want to build upon this success in the games to come.