Red Wolves' Overtime Triumph Against UAB - A Historic Comeback

Game Overview

In the highly anticipated matchup on December 21, 2024, Arkansas State found themselves trailing UAB by a whopping 25 points at halftime. However, the Red Wolves refused to give up and launched a remarkable comeback in the second half and overtime. The final score of 98-89 showcased their dominance and fighting spirit.

The game was a rollercoaster ride, with UAB initially taking control and building a large lead. But Arkansas State fought back with tenacity, outscoring the Blazers 70-36 in the final 25 minutes. This was the largest comeback win in school history and one of the largest in Division I since 2018.

Player Performances

Taryn Todd had a career-high performance, scoring 31 points on 12 field goals, including four from 3-point range. Kobe Julien also had a standout game, eclipsing the 20-point threshold with 25 points. Izaiyah Nelson and Rashaud Marshall both registered double-doubles, with Nelson scoring 16 points and 14 rebounds, and Marshall adding 14 points and 13 rebounds. Joseph Pinion contributed 12 points with three 3-pointers.

The Red Wolves' dominance on the glass was another key factor, as they outrebounded UAB 53-41. They also shot 44.3 percent from the field, including an impressive 54.3 percent in the second half and overtime. After a slow start from the perimeter in the first half, they caught fire in the second half, going 8-for-14 from beyond the arc.

UAB's Performance

UAB had their moments as well, with Tyren Moore and Yaxel Lendeborg each scoring 22 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. Efrem Johnson and Ja’Borri McGhee added 10 points each. However, the Blazers struggled from the field, shooting 41.3 percent for the night and only 32.3 percent from 3-point range.

Key Moments

The game was filled with dramatic moments. UAB built a 26-point lead early in the second half, but Arkansas State kept fighting. They pulled within 20 on a pair of Julien foul shots and then cut it to 10 on a Todd dunk. This sparked a 10-0 run that brought them back into the game.

With under 5:20 left, Julien closed the gap again, and Todd then scored to make it 78-76. After a tie from Alejandro Vasquez, Todd drilled a 3-pointer with 1:05 left to put Arkansas State ahead. Lendeborg sent the game into overtime with a dunk with seconds remaining.

In overtime, Julien opened with a 3-pointer, and Marshall and Todd added free throws and a score to put the Red Wolves up. Moore's 3-pointer with 1:23 left was the Blazers' final attempt, as Arkansas State sealed the victory with a 7-0 run.

Next Up

After this thrilling victory, Arkansas State begins Sun Belt Conference play on Saturday. They will host Coastal Carolina, with tip-off scheduled for 2 p.m. on ESPN+ and the radio broadcast available on the EAB Red Wolves Sports Network and the Red Wolves mobile app.

Social Media Presence

For the latest updates on the A-State men's basketball program, fans can follow @AStateMB on Twitter/X and @astatemb on Instagram. They can also like the team's Facebook page at Facebook.com/AStateMB.