UT Arlington's strong second-half performance propelled them to a 58-50 victory over Texas Rio Grande Valley at the UTRGV Fieldhouse. The Mavericks, now 13-6, outscored the Vaqueros 34-23 in the final period to secure the win. Marcell McCreary led the charge for UT Arlington, posting 14 points and 7 rebounds, while Raysean Seamster and Marcus Rigsby Jr. added 12 points each.
The first half was a closely contested affair, with Texas Rio Grande Valley taking a 27-24 lead into the break. Marvin McGhee III paced the Vaqueros with 10 points, while Filip Brankovic and Zae Blake chipped in with 9 points each. However, UT Arlington's balanced attack and rebounding edge ultimately proved too much for the Vaqueros to overcome.
As the second half unfolded, UT Arlington's offense began to find its rhythm. The Mavericks went on a decisive run, stretching their lead to as many as 10 points with just over 5 minutes remaining. Texas Rio Grande Valley attempted to mount a comeback, but UT Arlington's defense held firm, limiting the Vaqueros to just 23 second-half points.
The win marks a solid road victory for UT Arlington, who now boast a 127 net ranking. The Mavericks' ability to adapt and overcome a tough first-half performance will serve them well as they navigate the remainder of their schedule. For Texas Rio Grande Valley, the loss drops them to 10-11, with a 169 net ranking. Despite the setback, the Vaqueros can take heart from the strong performances of McGhee III, Brankovic, and Blake.
This matchup was classified as a Q3 game for both teams, providing a valuable opportunity for each to bolster their resumes. While the outcome may not have been surprising, the manner in which UT Arlington secured the win will undoubtedly boost their confidence. As the season progresses, the Mavericks want to build on this performance and make a push for a strong tournament seeding.
The victory also highlights UT Arlington's depth and versatility, with multiple players contributing to the winning effort. McCreary's all-around performance, in particular, stood out, as he led the team in both scoring and rebounding. As the Mavericks continue to navigate their schedule, they will rely on this balanced attack to drive their success.
In the end, UT Arlington's 58-50 win over Texas Rio Grande Valley serves as a reflection of their resilience and determination. With this Q3 victory, the Mavericks strengthen their tournament resume, while the Vaqueros want to regroup and refocus ahead of their next challenge. The outcome may not have been an upset, but the performance of McCreary and the Mavericks will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on their season.