CHARLOTTE – UAB came out of the gates with a 24-1 run to start the game and remained undefeated in Conference USA play after posting a 61-37 victory over Charlotte on Friday evening.
The Blazers (10-1, 3-0 C-USA) were led by Michael Ertel with 15 points. Kassim Nicholson scored nine points and grabbed a career-high 14 rebounds. Jalen Benjamin added 10 points and registered five assists. Tavin Lovan returned to the starting lineup and recorded career-highs with eight assists and six steals.
UAB’s defense held the 49ers (5-6, 1-2 C-USA) without a field goal for the first 13 minutes of the game and limited reigning Conference USA Freshman of the Year Jahmir Young to eight points, 12 below his season average. The 49ers missed its first 10 shots and made only 4-of-18 shots while committing 16 turnovers in the 1st half.
The Blazers went into halftime with a commanding 37-11 lead, outscoring Charlotte 20-4 in the paint and 14-0 off turnovers.
UAB’s largest lead of the game was 32 points after a Benjamin 3-pointer made the score 47-15 at 15:42 of the 2nd half.
“We were locked in early; we never allow Charlotte to get in a rhythm,” said head coach Andy Kennedy. “That was the biggest point of emphasis coming into the game.”
“Kassim’s activity level was off the charts. You never have to worry about his physical energy because he was so locked in. And that’s what you need from seniors, on the road, in conference play.”
Nicholson scored all nine of his points and grabbed 12 of his boards in the 1st half before missing several minutes due to a cut to his head. His 14 rebounds ties Trey Jemison for most in a single-game this season.
“Tyreek Scott-Grayson was terrific. We gave him the tough assignment in guarding one of the best players in the league in Jahmir Young. He did an outstanding job, not allowing their best player to find an offensive rhythm.”
Young finished the evening 2-of-7 shooting with six turnovers.
“Tonight was our best overall defensive performance, without our best defensive player in Quan Jackson. I’m really proud of the growth these guys have shown in the last 10 days.”
The Blazers and 49ers return to action Saturday afternoon. Tipoff is 3p.m. (CT)/4:00 p.m. (ET). The game will be streamed through ESPN+. This is a subscription-based service. Click here to register a new account.
GAME NOTES
- The 37 points allowed is the least given up by UAB since Jan. 3, 2009 in their 63-37 victory over Savannah State – this ties UAB’s third best defensive effort
- The least amount of points the Blazers have given up in a Conference USA game is 28 on Feb. 15, 2012 against SMU
- UAB leads the all-time series against Charlotte 32-18
- The 24-point margin is the largest victory over the 49ers in Charlotte
- The Blazers had a season-high 16 assists
- Charlotte’s 12 FGs and 38 attempts were season-bests for the UAB defense
MEN’S BASKETBALL TICKET INFORMATION
In compliance with CDC and state and local public health guidance, UAB adjusted the seating manifest to adhere to social distancing at Bartow Arena for the 2020-21 season. UAB reallocated season ticket holders who had completed their purchase of season tickets through October 19 and placed season ticket holders based on Blazer Boosters Priority Points and the price type of tickets purchased. As a reminder, original season ticket locations prior to the social distancing reallocation will be utilized for 2021-22 renewals or if capacity restrictions change during the 2020-21 season.
Due to social distancing guidelines, men’s basketball single game tickets and walk up sales are not be available to the public for the 2020-21 season.
Fans interested in season tickets are encouraged to fill out the season ticket request form or contact the UAB Ticket Office at (205) 975-UAB1. A member of the UAB Athletics Sales and Service team will be in touch if capacity restrictions are lifted or when 2021-22 season tickets become available.
