FORT WORTH, Texas — UAB’s Yaxel Lendeborg delivered an outstanding performance with 30 points, propelling the third-seeded Blazers past the sixth-seeded East Carolina in a 94-77 victory during the American Athletic Conference Tournament quarterfinals held on Friday.
With this win, UAB advances to face the No. 2 seed North Texas in the semifinals scheduled for Saturday.
Lendeborg had a phenomenal game, also accumulating 20 rebounds, eight assists, five steals, and four blocks, significantly contributing to the Blazers’ (21-11) triumph. Christian Coleman supported the effort by scoring 13 points, hitting 6 of 9 from the floor. Alejandro also made a solid contribution with 12 points, shooting 5 of 8 in attempts.
East Carolina (19-14) found a strong performer in RJ Felton, who led the scoring for the Pirates with 31 points. Joran Riley contributed with 11 points and six rebounds, while Cam Hayes added another 11 points along with eight assists.
Taking control early, UAB seized the lead with 14:40 remaining in the first half and maintained this advantage throughout the game. Lendeborg was instrumental in this sustained dominance, scoring 14 points in the first half, which ended with UAB leading 49-33. In the second half, Lendeborg added another 16 points, helping the team extend their lead slightly, topping East Carolina by one additional point in this period, ensuring their ultimate victory.
