WICHITA, Kan. — Alejandro Vasquez emerged as a pivotal force from the bench, guiding UAB to a triumphant 80-72 victory against Wichita State on Thursday night, contributing an impressive 29 points to the scoreboard.
Vasquez showcased his skills by making 11 of 22 field-goal attempts, including 1 of 4 from beyond the arc, and was perfect from the charity stripe, hitting all 6 free throws for the Blazers, who now hold a record of 19-9 overall and 12-3 in the American Athletic Conference. Adding to the team’s success, Christian Coleman chipped in 14 points, achieving 4 of 10 on field attempts and 6 of 7 from the free-throw line. Yaxel Lendeborg also contributed significantly, going 4 for 6 in field goals and 2 for 6 in free throws, amassing 11 points along with eight rebounds, six assists, and three steals.
On the Wichita State side, Corey Washington was a standout for the Shockers, ending the game with 24 points, 11 rebounds, two steals, and three blocks. His teammate Xavier Bell added 17 points, while Quincy Ballard recorded a double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds. The setback came after Wichita State’s impressive six-game winning streak, bringing their record to 17-11 overall and 7-8 in conference play.
UAB seized control of the game with just over seven minutes remaining in the first half and maintained this lead throughout, culminating in a halftime score of 39-34. Vasquez was instrumental, scoring 11 points in the first half and another 18 in the second to solidify UAB’s eight-point victory margin.
Looking ahead, Wichita State is set to face North Texas on Monday, while UAB will host the highly ranked Memphis team, currently leading the conference, on Sunday. UAB is now tied with North Texas for second place in the American Athletic Conference, just one game behind the Tigers.
