In a pivotal American Athletic Conference matchup, Ja’Borri McGhee’s career-high 27 points powered UAB to an 89-80 victory over Florida Atlantic on Thursday night. The win not only improved UAB’s conference record to 13-4 but also secured the program’s fifth consecutive 20-win season — a first in Blazers’ history.
McGhee was dominant throughout, shooting 10-of-16 from the field, including 2-of-4 from beyond the arc, while converting all five of his free throws. He scored 11 points in the first half before exploding for 16 more in the second to guide UAB past a determined FAU squad.
Alejandro Vasquez added 18 points on 8-of-14 shooting, while Yaxel Lendeborg contributed a double-double with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists.
Florida Atlantic (16-14, 9-8 AAC) was paced by Matas Vokietaitis, who recorded 21 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks. Kaleb Glenn added 16 points, and Baba Miller finished with 13 points, four assists, and two blocks.
The Owls came out firing, opening the game on an 8-0 run, sparked by junior guard Leland Walker and a highlight-reel chase-down block. Florida Atlantic’s offensive rhythm kept them in control for most of the first half, with Vokietaitis scoring 13 points on a perfect 5-for-5 start from the floor. Redshirt junior forward Tre Carroll closed the half with five consecutive points — a three-pointer followed by a crafty layup — giving FAU a 42-38 lead at the break.
UAB quickly responded in the second half, scoring on three straight possessions to reclaim the lead. The Blazers stretched the advantage behind timely three-pointers and defensive pressure. Florida Atlantic kept the game within reach thanks to repeated trips to the free-throw line and a strong closing push from Miller, who scored 11 of his 13 points down the stretch.
Miller’s two free throws cut the deficit to 76-72 with just over three minutes remaining, but UAB answered with a decisive 7-1 run to put the game out of reach.
Both teams will return to action on Sunday. UAB travels to Tulane, while Florida Atlantic looks to bounce back at home against East Carolina.The Owls will host Senior Day on Sunday against East Carolina, as FAU players Ken Evans Jr., Jack Johnson, and KyKy Tandy will be honored for their contributions to the program.
