The Temple Owls, hosting the UAB Blazers at the Liacouras Center, were looking to bounce back from a recent 2-3 stretch, where they averaged 72.8 points per game but allowed 74.6 points per game, resulting in a -1.8 point differential. However, their efforts were thwarted by a strong performance from UAB, who secured a 76-71 win, led by Chance Westry's 24 points and 8 assists. Temple's Jordan Mason had a notable game, scoring 18 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Blazers' balanced attack, which saw three players score in double figures, including Jacob Meyer with 18 points and 6 rebounds. The Owls' recent trend of struggling to close out games continued, as they were outscored 37-38 in the second half, despite having a 33-39 deficit at halftime.
UAB, on the other hand, has been trending upwards, averaging 69 points per game over their last 5 games, while allowing 68.2 points per game, resulting in a +0.8 point differential. This win marked their third victory in their last five games, with their only losses coming against Tulane and Memphis, both of which were by single-digit margins. The Blazers' ability to contain Temple's offense, holding them to 71 points, was a key factor in their win, as they limited the Owls to 38 points in the second half. With 10 minutes remaining in the game, UAB held a 58-51 lead, and they managed to maintain their advantage, despite Temple's efforts to mount a comeback. The Blazers' 39 points in the first half set the tone for the game, as they shot 44% from the field and 33% from three-point range.
Chance Westry's performance was a highlight of the game, as he not only scored 24 points but also dished out 8 assists, demonstrating his ability to create for himself and his teammates. Jacob Meyer's 18 points and 6 rebounds were also crucial, as he provided a strong presence in the paint and helped to stretch the defense with his mid-range shooting. On the other hand, Temple's Derrian Ford had a solid game, scoring 17 points and grabbing 5 rebounds, but he was unable to receive enough support from his teammates to change the outcome of the game. With 5 minutes remaining, Ford scored 5 consecutive points to bring Temple within 3 points, but UAB responded with a 7-2 run to seal the win.
As the game unfolded, it became clear that the CHD Scout's prediction of a Temple win by 2.8 points was off the mark.
CHD Scout Report Card
INCORRECTPredicted
Final
The prediction missed the mark due to UAB's ability to contain Temple's offense and limit their scoring opportunities. The Blazers' defense was able to force Temple into difficult shots, resulting in a 38% field goal percentage, and they also outrebounded the Owls 34-29, limiting their second-chance opportunities. Additionally, UAB's balanced attack, which saw three players score in double figures, made it difficult for Temple to focus on a single player, allowing the Blazers to maintain their lead throughout the game. The 76-73 predicted score was also off, as UAB's 76 points were 3 more than expected, while Temple's 71 points were 2 less than predicted.
The win for UAB marks a significant milestone in their season, as they improved their record to 17-10 and moved up to 118 in the NET rankings. Temple, on the other hand, fell to 15-11 and dropped to 162 in the NET rankings. With this loss, Temple's tournament hopes took a hit, as they are now 2-3 in their last 5 games, with their only wins coming against East Carolina and South Florida. UAB, however, has put themselves in a strong position, with a 3-2 record in their last 5 games, and a win against a Quadrant 3 opponent in Temple.
This win for UAB has real consequences for their tournament resume, as it marks a Quadrant 3 win, which can help to boost their NET ranking and improve their chances of making the tournament. The Blazers' current NET ranking of 118 is still on the bubble, but this win gives them a much-needed boost, as they look to solidify their position in the tournament picture. Temple, on the other hand, is now in a difficult position, as they need to win their remaining games to have a chance at making the tournament. The Owls' Quadrant 3 loss to UAB drops them to 2-5 in Quadrant 3 games, making it even more challenging for them to make a case for the tournament. With this loss, Temple's tournament hopes are dwindling, and they must regroup and refocus if they want to make a push for the postseason.
The final 2 minutes of the game were crucial, as UAB held a 68-63 lead and managed to maintain their advantage, despite Temple's efforts to mount a comeback. The Blazers' free throw shooting was key, as they made 6 of 8 free throws in the final 2 minutes, sealing the win and improving their record to 17-10. Temple's recent trend of struggling to close out games continued, as they were outscored 10-8 in the final 2 minutes, resulting in their 15-11 record. The Owls want to regroup and refocus, as they face a difficult schedule in the coming weeks, including games against Tulane and Memphis. UAB, on the other hand, want to build on this win, as they face a crucial stretch of games, including matchups against Rice and North Texas. The Blazers' 76-71 win over Temple marks a significant milestone in their season, and they want to continue their strong play as they push for a tournament bid. With 10 days remaining in the regular season, UAB is in a strong position, but they must continue to win to solidify their tournament hopes. The Blazers' next game is against Rice, where they want to improve their record to 18-10 and further boost their tournament chances.